First Nations supports offered to Merritt evacuees

SALMON ARM, B.C. — Evacuees from the Merritt area are being offered resources to help them deal with the emotional stress of the Coldwater River flood trauma.

This weekend, Emergency Support Services is collaborating with the First Nations Health Authority to provide culturally sensitive supports to First Nations people.

A mother-daughter team from Splatsin, joined to assist as part of the Emergency Reception Centre’s services at the Prestige Harbourfront Inn, located at 251 Harbourfront Drive, NE in Salmon Arm.

Edna and Laureen Felix are trained in traditional healing. They are available to all evacuees this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, November 27 and 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

“Many [evacuees] are fearful of what they are going home to,” explained Laureen Felix.

“They can be still in shock and trying to cope with this natural disaster, there’s anxiety there’s financial losses. We are here to provide a safe space for people, to help ease their minds, to talk or offer a Healing Circle,” she added.

The duo is extending their services to any evacuee who is in need, regardless of cultural background.

“We are flexible, as long as you need help, ask, and it will be given,” says Edna.

An area has been set up in the reception centre to provide a culturally sensitive safe space for conversation, and outdoors, there is a place for the women to sing, drum or conduct traditional brushing or spiritual cleansing ceremonies.