The app connects community members with Elder teachings, cultural programs, harm reduction resources and more.
Members of CheckingIn and the FNHA's Urban and Away From Home team attended a Community Dinner in Sq'ewlets to celebrate the launch of the app.
Community members and leadership in Sq'ewlets First Nation recently gathered to share a meal to celebrate the launch of the q'eyéx app. The app uses the CheckingIn platform to provide users with a confidential and safe space to connect with ancient teachings, learn from Elders and knowledge keepers and lift up the Sq'ewlets' ways of being.
The app was developed with various funding sources, including the First Nation Health Authority's (FNHA's) Urban and Away From Home Funding Initiative. The initiative provides grants to support the urban and away from home population in areas of primary care, mental health and wellness, the toxic drug response and addressing racism in health and wellness.
In less than two months since its launch, 21% of Sq'ewlets Nation members have signed up to use q'eyéx. Members have access to wellness services such as daily check ins, cultural programs, Elder teachings and harm reduction resources. Activities are provided in modules titled “teachings". Since signing up users have completed 2,378 total teachings.
The development of the app and its teachings was community-led. Speakers from the FNHA Urban and Away From Home team, CheckingIn and community leadership highlighted the success of the application's release.
“It is wonderful to see one of the initial UAH Funding Initiative grants come full circle with the launch of the q'eyéx app," says Ruhee Mardhani, Advisor, Urban and Away from Home, FNHA. “The impact the app will have by supporting future generations in staying connected to culture, no matter where they reside, is immeasurable."
“It's been an amazing journey developing this app with CheckingIn, says Sonya Williams, Sq'ewlets BSDW & Education Coordinator. “It's such a great resource for our members both on and off reserve. I was reflecting on how it all started and can't help feeling so proud of it all."
In addition to its aim to heal community members, revitalize language and preserve cultural teachings, the app has created a full time role for the community coordinator who is responsible for engaging with community and coordinating knowledge keepers, Elders, youth and the storytelling behind the teachings.
“I truly feel the impact we are making and the importance of my role here" says Atawni Hall, Community Coordinator. “It has brought me so much closer to everyone in my community and I just feel proud of the work that's been done. The work has taught me how to present myself to my community confidently and I have grown so much since starting. There is so much more to complete and I'm ready for it! Great programs ahead."
Future plans to enhance the app and increase its use include customized swag and prizes, and the integration of additional land-based teachings in order to offer members real-time knowledge of its significance.
Learn more about the application at the q'eyéx website, or take a look at CheckingIn.
