A new mobile mental health service will support First Nations people in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The Independent First Nations Alliance has been working with community leaders and MoveMobility to run this outreach program.

The van provides care support to those in need while helping people build connections, access mental health support, and find their way through local services. The Mobile Mental Outreach Van has been created in partnership with MoveMobility and offers a welcoming space for community members to talk, learn about available services, and connect with mental health supports.

This outreach van will support member Nations in urban centres, strengthening and rounding out mental health service delivery beyond the community. The van features artwork created by Storm Angeconeb, a Lac Seul artist, that displays warmth and extends an invitation to those in need. It reflects the five member Nations (Lac Seul First Nation, Muskrat Dam First Nation, Pikangikum First Nation, Whitesand First Nation, and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug) along with the four seasons to represent life’s changes, and everyday ways of life woven together with sacred medicines.

The van is wheelchair-accessible, can be used year-round, and includes space inside for services as well as an awning for outdoor pop-up events. It aims to reduce isolation and improve communication for First Nations people who may feel disconnected while in the city.

Source: Sarah Law, CBC