~Aboriginal Family Support Program

~Aboriginal Healthy Babies Program

~Aboriginal Pre-Natal Nutrition Program

~Akwego Program

~Dreamcatchers Youth Program

~Employment Referral & Training Program

~Healing & Wellness Program

~Leaders of Tomorrow - Youth Leadership Program

~Life Long Care Program

~Parents as Teachers (PAT)

~Program for Early Parenting Support

~Shawenjeagamik Drop In Centre

~Sweetgrass Home Child Care Agency

Introduction

The Odawa Aboriginal Pre & Post Natal Nutrition Program was proposed as a way to ensure a healthy start in life for the next generation of Native people. In order to make health care for expectant and new mothers more accessible and culturally appropriate, a program was developed which emphasizes the importance of traditional teachings and spiritual beliefs.

The program was launched in July of 1997. Funding is provided by the Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program, Health and Welfare Canada, through Ka:ne Our Children Our Future (formally the Brighter Futures Secretariat)

Goals

Provide services that improve the overall health of pregnant Aboriginal women and their unborn children.

  • Provide culturally specific and holistic services
  • Promote healthy nutrition for pregnant women and young families
  • Promote and support breastfeeding
  • Assist the family in preparation for their child
  • Encourage a healthy lifestyle for Aboriginal parents and their children
  • Promote healthy child development
  • Promote healthy recreational activities

     Programs offered:

    Prenatal Community Kitchen: Tues 4:00-7:00pm

  • Healthy meal is provided weekly
  • Healthy lifestyle choices
  • Preparation for childbirth through education and awareness
  • Teaching infant feeding choices
  • Encouraging the pregnant woman’s partner to participate
  • Encouraging healthy eating in expectant mother
  • Preparing foods from a traditional diet and lifestyle
  • Breastfeeding support


    Oska Wasis (New Baby): Mon & Wed 10:00am-12:30pm

  • Baby weigh-in
  • Questions answered
  • Parent/child interaction time
  • Child play
  • Parent support group
  • Infant massage
  • Growth and development education
  • Field trips
  • Baby stimulation

    Other Services:
  • Free Pregnancy Testing
  • Field trips
  • One-on-one support
  • Home visits
  • Hospital visits
  • Referrals to Elders
  • “Walk the Talk” strollercise
  • Tour of Hospital Birthing area
  • Gatherings and Teachings

    For further information please contact:

    Odawa Native Friendship Centre
    12 Stirling Avenue
    Ottawa, Ontario
    K1Y 1P8
    Phone: (613) 722-3811 ext 270
    Fax: (613) 722-4667

    Email: