Community organizations gather to promote wellness

Grande Prairie groups bring health resources to the vulnerable

Story & photos by Lisa Laferriere

GRANDE PRAIRIE — Community organizations here recently gathered to join forces and dedicate resources to promote health and wellness for vulnerable populations.

The Community Health Day event at the Bonnets Energy Centre on March 27 offered support and care for those in need, bringing a wide range of services and resources with a goal to improve their overall well-being.

The event addressed the health needs of vulnerable individuals, with a focus on testing and treatment for Hepatitis C and other sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections. Other services offered included immunizations and addiction help, including access to the local opioid dependency program, mental health resources, hygiene products, and more.

By providing crucial medical tests as well as offering educational resources and incentives, the initiative aimed to uplift and empower attendees and foster a sense of community and support.

Organizers included: Alberta Health Services (AHS), Northreach Society, Grande Prairie Friendship Centre, London Drugs Pharmacy, the Canadian Mental Health Association and LiveRx.

LiveRx, an Alberta Innovates funded Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Health System study, is a collaboration between the University of Calgary, the University of Alberta and AHS, along with private industry partners, working together to eradicate Hepatitis C. Dr. Mark Swain, a hepatologist from Calgary, serves as principal investigator for LiveRx.

“Hepatitis C testing and treatment, along with screening for other sexually transmissible and blood-borne infections, including syphilis, formed a crucial aspect of the healthcare offerings at the Community Health Day,” says Cari Egan, lead for Partnerships and Implementation Science, Research and Innovation with AHS Provincial Population Public Health.

“These services, coupled with immunizations and other preventive and supportive health measures, aimed to help to prioritize the health of attendees and educate them about local supports available.”

Egan, also a co-investigator on the LiveRx study, adds that the event proved a great opportunity to bring local organizations together and assist residents with a central access point to many services.

“The collaborative effort of community partners played a pivotal role in the success of the event. Together, their expertise and dedication helped create a safe and inclusive space where attendees could access a wide range of local resources.”

Lunch was provided to attendees, while door prizes and incentives, such as backpacks and gift cards, were offered to participants. Plans are underway to hold a similar event this coming fall.

“By offering health services, resources and support,” adds Egan, “the event not only addressed immediate healthcare needs but also fostered a sense of belonging and solidarity within the community.”