SCO invests $1.5M in wellness initiative for youth

The Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) has announced a new health-care program with an investment of $1.5 million. This initiative aims to promote wellness based on the traditions of the Anishinaabe and Dakota Nations in southern Manitoba. The Healthy Living campaign will focus on improving health for nearly 32 nations represented by SCO. Activities include basketball for youth, garden competitions for healthy eating, language classes, and a youth drum group. The organization hopes these efforts will address serious health issues, such as the growing gap in life expectancy and rising diabetes rates among Indigenous communities. A significant portion of the funding will support young athletes participating in the Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games, which will return after a decade on August 17-23. Chief E.J. Fontaine from Sagkeeng First Nation highlighted the importance of these Games, emphasizing their role in providing positive alternatives for youth. Another $100,000 will support summer basketball camps for the youth across the SCO nations. The health campaign will promote seven key themes: food, water, movement, community, land, knowledge, and culture. It will also include funding for a youth drum group and language classes. The SCO is encouraging a better relationship with food through gardening efforts in schools. Willie Moore, a regional chief, noted alarming diabetes rates among children, especially in Indigenous communities. The initiative aims to tackle these challenges through health and wellness strategies.