ABORIGINAL HEALTHY BABIES HEALTHY CHILDREN PROGRAM
The program was initiated to service the Aboriginal (status, non-status, Métis, and Inuit) community of Timmins. The program is a prevention/intervention strategy for families with children 0-6 years of age. The program offers traditional perspectives and is culturally based.
OBJECTIVES:
To assist and provide Aboriginal families opportunities for healthy development.
To prepare families for parenting, prenatal and post partum care.
To ensure that they have access to services and support to address their needs.
The program provides support in the following areas:
PRENATAL CLASSES
This service is provided at home when mothers are unable to attend due to health concerns or lack or transportation/childcare.
POST PARTUM
The post partum component extends teachings of proper nutrition for parent and children 0-6 years of age.
PARENTING
Planned parenthood and care giving support education will be offered through one on one basis at the Centre or during home visitation. Covers all stages of child rearing from preconception to early childhood development.
LAY HOME VISITING
The focus of the AHBHC Program is to provide services through lay home visitation on a one on one basis. This service is also implemented for families who are unable to attend the Centre due to health reasons, childcare or lack of transportation.
REFERRAL SERVICE
The AHBHC Program will offer referral services to participants who require other Friendship Centre services or other local service providers (non-native and native) in the Timmins area.
OTHER PROGRAM SERVICES
Consulting/Advocacy
Resource Library
Cultural Teachings
Educational Workshops
Healthy Choices and Nutrition
Parent Relief
Play Groups
Infant Stimulation
Counselling
Translation
Life Skills
Child Development
Recreation
From time to time the program sponsors Traditional Ceremonies such as Naming Ceremonies, Night Lodge Ceremonies, Feasts and Sweats. The program encourages parents and families to instill the language and tradition to our children.
The TNFC also offers soup kitchens and breakfasts regularly to promote and ensure the continuation of a healthy pregnancy.
