Communication is key
One of the main benefits of the program is improved communication between community members and health workers, according to Chabot.
Maniwaki is a mostly French-speaking town, but most Indigenous people in the area speak either English or Anishinaabemowin as their first language. The translation is very important, she said. Building that and bringing that here and providing a sense of belonging, also with the traditional medicine, with a better understanding of our culture and our history, with the staff, with the people that work here I think that brings more trust.
Monique Chabot, a social worker for the Integrated Service for First Nations in Maniwaki, says the program helps build trust between Indigenous people and health care providers.(Radio-Canada)