A new initiative of weekly group sessions for men has begun to support Cheslatta Carrier Nation men struggling with addiction and mental health issues.
Cheslatta Youth Support Worker Trenis Cahoose is leading the project and has worked with Brian Clyne, Carrier Sekani Family Services (CSFS) Men’s Wellness Coordinator.
“Our plan is to create a place where you can hang out, have lunch and just feel good,” Cahoose told Lakes District News. “We wanted to focus on the men who struggle with addiction and mental health and give them a safe space to talk and get general help with anything they need support with.”
Clyne says it’s gratifying to get the program up and running in the face of challenges.
“We are excited to have the opportunity to advance this work,” he said. “COVID-19 has been a challenge for all group based programs and for the men’s wellness program this has been compounded by challenges with technology and access to communication with men. Our colleagues in the Cheslatta Carrier Nation, as well as our staff, have worked hard for many months to get male programming in place and we are excited to continue making progress together with our brothers.”
CSFS communications director Andrea Palmer told Lakes District News that groups like these are self-funded through a combination of funds from CSFS, the Dude’s Club and the Cheslatta Carrier Nation.
The money went towards facilities that will house the group, including a ping-pong table, foosball table and various other games and activities, as well as a working kitchen. Lunch will be prepared by Cahoose.
“Carrier Sekani Family Services has been involved with the men’s wellness program for nearly five years, providing financial and human support,” Palmer said. “Building trust in a group like this requires building relationships and trust as we work to ensure the safety of the men who participate. This includes supporting physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. These groups help meet the needs of men.”
“We are committed to minimizing the risk of COVID-19 while empowering our men and providing these opportunities to bond and build brotherhood. We encourage all men to explore the groups and rekindle old friendships as well as work to build new connections.”
The group sessions are held in a new building recently acquired by Cheslatta called the History House, which is adjacent to the Cheslatta Training Center on Southbank. The first meeting took place on January 12th.
“First off we have another session scheduled for the rest of January and from there we’re hoping to make it a weekly thing, that’s what we’re working towards,” Cahoose said.
For more information about the group, follow the Cheslatta Carrier Nation Facebook page.
READ MORE: Head of giant snake going to Cheslatta Carrier Nation
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source https://www.bisayanews.com/2022/01/20/new-mens-support-group-for-cheslatta-carrier-nation-burns-lake-lakes-district-news/
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