Addictions & Wellness

Vision

To provide services to individuals and family members in the community of Fort William First
Nation that are affected by addictions and require direction, support, and advocacy in a holistic, culturally sensitive, non-bias manner that is safe and confidential.

Mission

• To establish the Addiction and Wellness Program in Fort William First Nation community that can address not only the addictions piece, but the overall wellness associated with recovery and healthy living in a culturally relevant manner
• To assist and support Fort William First Nation community members in the relapse Prevention, Treatment referral and Aftercare process while maintaining sobriety
• To provide a safe and confidential atmosphere for Fort William First Nation community members to initiate services and tailor them to meet the individuals or family members needs

Values

The values implemented in the Addiction and Wellness Program is based on the Seven Grandfather Teachings that were also identified in the Fort William First Nation Healing Strategy Document. They are:

Wisdom, Love, Respect, Courage, Honesty, Humility and Truth.

Committees

• Drug Awareness Committee
• Thunder Bay Drug Strategy
• Drug Strategy Implementation Panel
• Municipal Drug Strategy Coordinators Network
• Opioid Surveillance Task Force

Monthly Newsletters

Monthly information pertaining to programming, events, or education resources are distributed through Fort William First Nation Community Newsletter.

Harm Reduction & Education

1. November 27, 2017 Fort William First Nation entered into a formal partnership with Superior Points Harm Reduction to administer the Safe Needle Exchange Program on Reserve.

2. Fort William First Nation facilitates a CARE (Community Addiction and Recovery Education) Group every second Friday for individuals and families affected by addictions.

3. Fort William First Nation initiated the Community Action Against Drug Group now known as COPE (Community Outreach & Prevention Education) Group, which is a community driven initiative.

Treatment & Referral

The Addiction and Wellness Worker assists individuals with Relapse Prevention Planning, Treatment Planning and Referrals, and Aftercare.

Youth Engagement

The Addiction and Wellness Worker attends youth programs monthly and facilitates a cultural based prevention and education addiction program that is age appropriate.