Part of the 2015-16 FNHA #WinterWellness Grant Initiative

In the heart of Prince George, the Prince George Native Friendship Centre hosted a community health fair for First Nations and Aboriginal people and their families, as well as those in the surrounding communities. There were a range of activities and services on offer, including free haircuts, hand massages, photographs, lunch and book giveaways. Additionally, there were health service providers and health testing taking place throughout the fair.

"Relationship building is a key to community accessing services. If they can meet someone who works at a health agency, they are more likely to access a service or refer their friends/family. There are other community health fairs in Prince George, but ours is the only one that is planned with low-income people in mind. There is nothing for sale at our health fair, no entrance fees, no booth fees, and no cost for any of the activities. This helps people to feel welcomed, comfortable and reduces barriers to them taking part."

This was not the first year the event has been run and the organizers have managed to work out all the kinks, expand the services offered and improve the parts that the community enjoy. Haircuts were a popular returning service, as was the book giveaway, which was a huge success. Families particularly liked the Aboriginal children's books available.

Organizers identified relationship-building as a key benefit in attending this event, especially relationship building between health services/agencies and low-income families. Organizers praised staff support during the event, and noted that community support and sponsorships really added to the event as well.

"I liked everything…informative, fun and freebies"

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