Healthy Choice Community Healthy – How to Lead Healthier Lifestyles Free from Addiction

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Michael Martin is a knowledge keeper and addictions counselor for the Listuguj Community Social Services Directorate. He offers a variety of teachings in the community, but one of his most recent undertakings is the Healthy Choice Healthy Community Lunch and Learn event.

This is a partnered event with Listuguj Community Social Services, the Listuguj Police Department and Listuguj Community Health Services.  It explores healthy options and addiction free lifestyles, with open discussions about trauma, culture, and resources. Each event consists of a session with several discussion topics. Some of these topics include:

  • Triggers, cravings, and avoiding relapses
  • Stress and emotional well-being
  • Effects of substance use on mental health
  • Family Matters

On January 30th, the topics of discussion were “Anger and Communication” and “Negative Emotions.” Martin led the event and said, “I can deliver this session effectively because of my life experience, schooling and training.” Discussions were held about understanding emotions, intergenerational trauma, and vulnerability in the community.

These events are designed to help individuals understand and learn about addictions, and the impact they have on the community. It’s a safe space to share feelings, advice and resources. “Every individual has something to share that can help the next person,” said Martin.

Healthy Choice Healthy Community events are posted on the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government’s Facebook page, and are held at Listuguj Community Social Services on 2 Gef St. They are open to everyone, and lunch is served. Suggestions for communication and upcoming topics are always welcome.

For more information, contact Michael Martin at 418-788-3039, or michael.martin@ann-jacques

By Ann Marie Jacques

GRAYSON ISAAC TO TRY OUT FOR THE DETROIT JR. RED WINGS TEAM

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Even though Grayson Isaac is only nine years old, he has already had an impressive and extensive hockey career that began at a very young age. He said, “I was on skates at two, and I started playing hockey at four or five.” Isaac is the son of Michael and Sarah Isaac and is currently a grade four student at Alaqsite’w Gitpu School in the community.

Isaac is a goaltender and plays for two teams in the area. He plays for the Restigouche U11 Comp A Vikings, and for NB Ice in the Spring. Last year, he was selected to play for the Atlantic Apex team.

Last year, Isaac was asked to play in a tournament in Quebec City. The team he was on was coached by former NHL hockey player, Danny Cleary. Isaac’s goalie skills and love for the game were quickly noticed in Quebec City, and he was recommended to the Brick team, the Detroit Jr. Red Wings. Isaac was invited to Detroit, Michigan to try out for their Brick hockey team. He will be going during March Break.

This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for Isaac. The team consists of hockey players born in 2015. The Detroit Jr. Red Wings were also last year’s winners at The Brick Invitational Hockey Tournament.

Isaac will play two games and take part in an evaluation camp while he is in Detroit at the Little Caesars Arena. If he makes the team, he will play at The Brick Invitational Hockey Tournament later this year at the West Edmonton Mall in Alberta.

While he is in Detroit, he will get to attend two morning skates with NHL team, the Detroit Red Wings, and a locker room tour. He will also get to attend two NHL games.

This is an incredible opportunity for Isaac, who has so much talent when it comes to hockey. His goal is to one day play for the NHL, and his favourite hockey player is Carey Price.

Be sure to cheer on Isaac while he tries out for the Detroit Jr. Red Wings team in March!

By Ann Marie Jacques

Ella Vicaire– Inspiring Today’s Youth to Embrace their Language and Culture

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If you’ve attended any event in the community over the past few months, then you are probably familiar with Listuguj’s Ella Vicaire and her exceptional knowledge when it comes to the Mi’gmaw language. She is the daughter of Katerina Vicaire-Wysote and Perley Caplin and is a 17-year-old Sugarloaf Senior High School (SSHS) student.

Vicaire began learning Mi’gmaw when she attended Nursery at the Education Complex in the community. She was enrolled in Mi’gmaw Immersion until grade two at Alaqsite’w Gitpu School, where she was taught by a number of educators in the community. She said she remembers having fluent conversations in Mi’gmaw in these early years but unfortunately lost some of it later when she no longer was enrolled in the Immersion program.

When she began Sugarloaf Senior High School in grade nine, students were given the option if they would like to take a French or Mi’gmaw class. Vicaire opted for Mi’gmaw and her knowledge of the language naturally came back. During her time at SSHS, she has been taught by Betty Metallic, Joanne Vicaire and Carol Metallic. Two years ago, Carol Metallic posted a video of Vicaire reciting the poem, Maqamige’jg Flanders (In Flanders Fields), that quickly went viral online.

When it comes to the opportunities she was given since learning the language, she said, “It started off just speaking at school, and doing little things, and then recently a lot of opportunities came in.” Vicaire has recited prayers and opening remarks at several events such as the 2024 Truth and Reconciliation Ceremony, Chief and Council Inauguration, the grand opening of the Listuguj Police Department and more.

Although learning the language and culture can be intimidating, Vicaire says it has been a healing experience for her and is passionate about inspiring others to learn. Over the years, she has developed a very profound understanding of the language, that continues to impress the community. When she was a child, she remembers her Nan speaking Mi’gmaw at home. She said, “It was nice to do this for my Nan. She’s proud because we’re losing our language, and I wish a lot more students would take advantage and learn it.”

Vicaire will be graduating SSHS this year and will be attending Holland College in Prince Edward Island in the Fall to study Dental Assisting. We wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors!

By Ann Marie Jacques

Creating Over 140 Jobs with the Mesgi’g Ugju’s’n 2 Wind Project

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Mi’gmawei Mawiomi Business Corporation (MMBC) held three recruitment open houses in Listuguj, Gesgapegiag and Gespeg in January. Listuguj’s open house was held on January 15th at the Listuguj Community Development Center (Bingo Hall.)

MMBC’s Mi’gmaq Project Coordinator and Spokesperson, Terry Shaw – former Chief of Gespeg, gave a presentation on MMBC’s values, projects and upcoming opportunities with the the Mesgi’g Ugju’s’n 2 (MU2) Wind Project in the MRC d’Avignon. Like MU1, MU2 will be done with an equal partnership between MMBC and Innergex Renewable Energy. This renewable energy initiative will generate over 140 jobs with the goal of maximizing Mi’gmaw employment and aims for commercial operation by December 2026.

MMBC’s Mesgi’g Ugju’s’n Project Manager, Kirt Dedam spoke about the four pillars the organization focuses on when it comes to its projects: Employment, Education, Training and Communication.

If you are interested in a career in the renewable energy sector in Gespe’gewa’gi, there are a number of options available.

There are several employment opportunities with the upcoming MU2 Project:

  • Construction workers (heavy equipment operators, electricians, millwrights, ironworkers, labourers)
  • Site management (site managers, coordinators, health and safety officers)
  • Non-specialized trades (security, janitors, and more)
  • Administrative and logistics (site nurses, clerks, assistants)

For more information on these positions, or to submit your application visit: www.mmcorporation.ca/employment

MMBC offers a Scholarship and Bursary Program, which will be rolling out in May 2025. You can find more information on this at www.mmcorporation.ca.

A 14-week Entry-Level Wind Turbine Technician Program will be starting in April 2025. This program consists of online classes, in-community training and internship experience. It offers a weekly compensation, a meal allowance, and one of its main focuses is to encourage Indigenous women to apply. Spaces are limited.

MMBC offers a paid Traineeship Program at the Mesgi’g Ugju’s’n Wind Farm, where individuals can take part in a two-day on-site program, and see what the day in the life of a wind turbine maintenance technician is like. The program includes a guided tour of the operational facilities and the wind farm site, learning essential safety protocols, hands-on workshops and more. Individuals will also get the opportunity to climb a 100-meter wind tower.

If you’d like to apply for the Entry-Level Wind Turbine Technician Training Program, or the Traineeship Program at the Mesgi’g Ugju’s’n Wind Farm, please contact Kirt Dedam for an application at kdedam@mmcorporation.ca or 418-759-3070.

By Ann Marie Jacques

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Full Spectrum Doula Services Now Available in Listuguj!

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Maternal Child health program in partnership with the Mishwaashin Lodge Indigenous Women’s Support Centre hosted the Aunties on the Road: Indigenous Full Spectrum Doula Training in September 2024. We had a wonderful group who took part in this training.

We would like to present to you 4 community members who took part in the Indigenous Full spectrum Doula training in September 2024.

  • Allanah Dedam
  • Sarah Clement
  • Chantel Isaac
  • Brianna Caplin

What is an Indigenous full spectrum doula?

it is a non-medically trained care provider who offers support to Indigenous people throughout their reproductive and sexual health journeys. They can help with a variety of experiences, including:

  • pregnancy, birth, postpartum, abortion, family planning, menstruation, adoption, loss, and perimenopause and menopause.

Indigenous full spectrum doulas can provide culturally relevant care that builds on traditional Indigenous roles and teachings. They can help clients honor their traditional and spiritual practices and support their cultural and language needs.

If ever you are interested in Doula Services or have any questions, you can contact Avery or Katrina at the Health center at (418) 788-2155.

By Listuguj Community Health Services

Listuguj Income Security

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The Listuguj Community Social Services Directorate (LCSSD) offers several programs and resources to the community, one of these resources is the First Nations of Quebec Income Security Program.  In the community, there are a number of employees working for LCSSD who specialize in the Income Security Program. Denise Jacques is the Manager, Brandey Barnaby and Macy Vicaire are Intake Workers, Sheila Brisk is the Receptionist and Sophie Delaney is the Community Support Worker.

This Income Security Program is used as a last resort for independent adults, married persons and common law partners only.

To be eligible you must:

  • Be an adult aged 18 years or older OR, if you are under the age of 18, be or have been married or be the parent of a dependent child.
  • Live in the community to which you have submitted your application.
  • Demonstrated that you have no other financial resource at your disposal. (Note that exclusions may apply with respect to your liquid assets, goods and income.)

This program is divided into two categories:

Unable to Work

Income assistance under the category of Unable to work is provided to people who have restrictions preventing them from holding employment or participating in training measures owing to their precarious state of health, a chronic impairment, their age, or any other reason recognized by the regulation.

Able to Work

Income assistance under the category Able to work is provided to people in a situation of financial insecurity or employment instability and who have not demonstrated an incapacity to participate in employment insertion and training measures. This category of income security is considered a transitional step.

For community members interested in applying for this program, they must submit an application and complete the income security program registration form.  

They will then be asked to provide supporting documents to determine eligibility and establish the amount to which they are entitled.

Supporting documentation that may be requested may include, but not limited to:

  • Proof of residence form
  • Birth certificate or picture ID
  • Bank statement

After you have filled out the appropriate paperwork and supplied the supporting documents, your application will be processed, and a decision will be made within the next 10 days.

If you are approved for the program, you must complete a Monthly Declaration form each month and return it. This form must be submitted no later than the 15th of every month.

Once per year, your files will be re-evaluated.

The Income Security program also offers special allowances to help cover needs that are not considered by your basic benefit. Some of the special needs include funeral expenses, pregnancy, childcare, diabetes, etc. It is an individual’s responsibility to inform the Income Security team of their special need no later than 30 days following the event. Supporting documentation must be supplied.

If you are interested in the Income Security Program in the community, or if you have any questions, please contact 418-788-2909 or email denise.jacques@listuguj.ca.

By Ann Marie Jacques and the Listuguj Community Social Services Directorate

Reflect on 2024 with the Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative

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It’s no secret that the holidays are a busy time of the year that comes with added pressure and stress.  The Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative (LWRI) wants to help you keep your wellness in check during the holidays with these tips:

  1. Maintain healthy habits (mentally and physically) – Do not overdo it and burn yourself out over the holidays. Do not focus on being the perfect host or buying the perfect gifts. Make sure to set boundaries and limit expectations. Remember to eat healthily, stay active, prioritize sleep, and take time for yourself.
  2. Stay connected with loved ones or reach out if you are feeling lonely or sad – You do not need to be alone this holiday season. Reach out to your loved ones, or support group and let them know how you’re feeling.
  3. Stay positive – The holiday season is about traditions, joy, and spending time with the people you love. Be present and be kind to yourself.

This year the Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative continued to educate the community with information on ongoing programs and services offered in Listuguj relating to health and wellness. This information was provided at various events, and on the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government’s social media channels.

Here’s what the LWRI were up to in 2024:

  • February 21 and 22nd – A Wellness Symposium was held at the Listuguj Community Development Center. This event consisted of many guest speakers and presenters focusing on the topic of overall wellness. Several booths were set up inside with a variety of information and resource materials.  A sacred fire was held outside for the duration of the event by John Paul Lavigne. 

Guest speakers: Glenda Wysote LaBillois, Dr. Stéphanie Marsan and RN Johanna Sincére of the Centre Hospitalier de l’Universite de Montreal (CHUM), Christine Metallic, Michael Martin, Kali Barnaby, Melissa Bryan and Mitchell Syvret-Caplin of Mawiomi Treatment Center, Codey Martin, Patrick Wilmot, and Jacob Gale. A speech was given on behalf of Chief and Council, and from the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Government’s CEO and Directors.

  • April 24 – A Career Fair was held for high school students at Alaqsite’w Gitpu School. This event consisted of guest speakers, breakout sessions, and a trade fashion show. The LWRI had a booth set up and provided information to youth on wellness programs in the community.
  • November 18-22 – The LWRI honoured National Addictions Awareness Week by assisting with a number of events. A Wellness Walk to Alaqsite’w Gitpu School was held. Guest speakers included: Diane Bernard, Michael Isaac, and a speech on behalf of Chief and Council. A craft night and drum making event was also held during this week.
  • The LWRI conducted multiple focus groups over the year, collecting data, and speaking with different age demographics on the importance of wellness in the community.
  • The LWRI held several prescription drop off events, in collaboration with the Listuguj Police Department, Listuguj Community Health Services, the Listuguj Community Social Services Directorate, and the CLSC. Community members could drop off expired, unused/used prescriptions for a chance to win a prize. Disposal of medication is important, because fewer medicines in the home means fewer safety risks.
  • Several Holiday events: a Jingle all the Way Christmas party, annual Christmas parade, and a house decorating contest.

At any time during the holidays, if you need support or assistance, there are numbers available 24/7 to support Listuguj community members. We recommend using these numbers to ensure that emergencies are dealt with in a prompt and efficient manner.

  • For all emergencies – 911

  • Listuguj Police Department/Listuguj Fire Department Emergency Line – 418-788-2003

  • For Listuguj Community Social Services:

Contact information regarding any youth protection matter or concern during business hours, community members are encouraged to reach the Child and Family Services Social Worker or respective team members at 418-788-3039 from Monday through Friday 8:30-4:30 (exceptions are statutory and designated holidays).

In the event of an after-hour youth protection emergency, community members may call Youth Protection Services for out-of-province calls or cellular calls 418-368-1803 OR 1-800-463-0629 Evenings/Weekends. Additional contacts: emergency calls may be made during the day at 1-800-463-4225.  

  • Listuguj Haven House 24-Hour Crisis Line – 418-788-5544
    www.listugujhavenhouse.ca
    Facebook – Listuguj Haven House

  • Mawiomi Treatment Centre in Gesgapegiag – 418-759-3522
    https://www.mawiomi.org/

  • 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline is now available nationwide in English and French, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative wishes you all a safe and happy holiday season and looks forward to bringing you more information on wellness in the new year!

Listuguj Wellness Renewal Initiative – Our Journey to a Healthier Community Starts Here!

By Ann Marie Jacquesz

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Jamie Metallic Designs

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Listuguj’s own Jamie Metallic is a self-taught artist who has been making traditional crafts since she was a child. Crafting always made her feel at peace and grounded, and is motivated by creating meaningful art. Over the years she developed a broad skill set when it comes to traditional crafts, and her specialties include concho belts, traditional beaded mitts, moccasins, ribbon skirts, quilling, beading and Pow Wow regalias.  Metallic’s precision and intricateness is a true reflection of her years of experience when it comes to crafting.  

Regarding her work, and inspirations, Metallic said, “Over the years as an artist, you do get inspired by other’s people’s work, but I’d like to think that I’ve developed my own style of beadwork and creations. I like to put my own spin on my designs, I love to incorporate quill work into my pieces and think outside the box for my bead designs on my mitts. I like for them to stand out.”  She is inspired by the people she works with, whether it’s a student in her workshops, fellow creators or the communities she engages with. She is always eager to explore and grow when it comes to her craft and is determined to bring Indigenous art and culture to a wider audience.

Metallic offers belt and quill workshops, where she offers hands-on experience in learning traditional techniques and to embrace Indigenous artistry. These workshops are great for team building exercises, or for individuals who are simply interested in learning more about creating traditional crafts. She said, “Our workshops are more than just craft sessions: they are about creating shared space for creativity, collaboration, and community.”

If you would like more information on Jamie Metallic Designs, or would like to host a workshop, you can email jamiecmetallic77@gmail.com, reach out on Facebook: Jamie Metallic or Jamie Metallic Designs, or through Instagram: Jamie Metallic.

By Ann Marie Jacques

GEMS – Girls, Empowerment, Mentorship, Strengthening.

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GEMS is a program held within the Listuguj Community Social Service Directorate (LCSSD.) It is an after-school group for girls aged 9-13. This program is designated to offer mentorship and guidance for young girls in the community.

Carlene Isaac is a Home Support Worker at LCSSD and facilitates the group projects with GEMS. The girls who are registered for this program meet after school every Monday at LCSSD. They work on a variety of different projects such as arts and crafts and self-defense. The program also consists of information sessions on several important topics like bullying, sexual development, dangers of vaping and more.  

In the new year, Isaac would like to incorporate new teachings and cultural aspects to the program, such as beading, the Seven Sacred Teachings, medicines, and more.

In August, the GEMS program held a jingle dress workshop with Listuguj’s own, Cheyenne Isaac-Gloade. All nine girls enrolled in the program completed their dresses with pride.

At the end of the school year, the GEM and PALS (Protecting Ancient Leadership Skills) program at LCSSD went to tree-go in Rimouski.

When it comes to the importance of this program in Listuguj, Isaac said, “GEMS is important to the community because it’s a little group like family for the girls. They all get along when they’re here, and all have a great time. Most importantly, it also teaches them a lot of skills, and knowledge, and culture.”

As of right now, the GEMS program is full, with 10 girls enrolled. If you are interested in more information on GEMS, and upcoming registration opportunities, please contact Carlene Isaac at LCSSD at 418-788-3039 or via email at carlene.isaac@listuguj.ca.

By Ann Marie Jacques

AGS Launches New Production Team

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Alaqsite’w Gitpu School (AGS) has recently rolled out a brand-new production team for students to take part in. Gitpu Productions was established roughly a month and a half ago and was created for students who wanted to be part of a team, but not necessarily interested in sports. Being part of a team or club shows commitment, independence and responsibility.  Gitpu Productions is led by gym teachers, Jennifer Morrison and Tyler Gideon, with assistance from teacher, Darryl Stevens, and as of right now, there are 11 members, ranging from grade 5 to grade 7.

Grade five French Immersion student, Mia Legace, who is a member of the production team, said, “Gitpu Productions is pretty much of us making videos of people working at our school, of the athletes, and everyone else, and we put them on our media groups online.”

Each student has their own jobs and duties that they are comfortable with performing. Some of the tasks include sports announcements, filming and live-streaming sports events, graphic design, photography, laundry, and more. Gideon said, “There’s so many things that we can do. We’re going to start small, and we’re going to build and build and make sure all these students experience different jobs and see all the little things behind the scenes that most people don’t see when it comes to events.” While some of the students on the production team are members of various sports teams at AGS, they work together to ensure all tasks are met, if one of the students is out to play sports.

The production team gets together at least once a week to brainstorm and come up with ideas for future projects and events. A few ideas for the future: interviewing athletes to create profiles and bios, becoming game officials and statisticians, and creating gear for the team, with a logo created by member, grade seven English student, Charlie Pictou.  The team will also be looking into rolling out their own TikTok channel and creating more social media content. Morrison said, “We’re also going to be having some video editing. They’re going to be in charge of creating TikToks, content for social media, and getting the word out to community members.”

As of right now, you can see what Gitpu Productions has been working on via the Facebook page, “AGS Sports and Recreation.” The students have been dedicated to showing AGS and the community what they have been working on. We look forward to seeing what they have in store for the future!

From left to right:
Jennifer Morrison, Emily Mitchell, Donna Isaac Brisk, Sheeana Martin, Aubrey Wysote, Kiana Anderson Isaac, Charlie Pictou, Mia Legace, Lori Brisk, Kiera Barnaby, Lilly Barnaby, Shyla Martin, and Tyler Gideon.

By Ann Marie Jacques