First Nations Declare Public Health Emergency | Winnipeg News

Four First Nations in northwestern Manitoba, home to over 17,000 people, have declared a public health emergency as toxic drugs, HIV, hepatitis C, and homelessness converge in the Island Lake region. Grand Chief Alex McDougall warns the crisis has shattered community safety, calling for urgent action beyond emergency responses. While Manitoba’s Chief Public Health Officer declared a similar HIV emergency in May, Anisininew leaders argue the system has failed them and demand a new approach: federal and provincial partnerships rooted in treaty commitments, focused on prevention—not just crisis funding. Manitoba’s Minister of Housing, Addictions, and Homelessness highlights existing support, including 1,200 treatment spaces and harm reduction programs, while Indigenous Services Canada pledges long-term collaboration. The Anisininew Okimawin Grand Council invites Canada and Manitoba to join them in building sustainable, prevention-based solutions that honor treaties and save lives. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/7268a0c88ef32db2