Observe Physical Distancing Even When Outside

Warmer weather is (finally) starting to descend on us. With the higher temperatures we understand some residents will be heading for the water.

Please remember that access to Neyaashiinigmiing remains restricted to residents of the community. This restriction, put in place to protect the community during the COVID-19 pandemic, includes all waterfront in Neyaashiinigmiing. Non-residents may not enter the community by water at this time.

If you do take to the beaches and swimming spots to cool off, be mindful of the safety of everyone in the community, including yourself. Watch your children as they swim, and please observe physical distancing and remain at least 2 meters at all times from people not from your household.

Cool down, but most importantly, stay strong, stay safe and stay healthy!

Employment Opportunity – Teaching Assistant

The Nawash Board of Education is seeking a qualified Teaching Assistant for Kikendaasogamig Elementary School, in a contract position for the fall semester. Our children and our school are unique and are just waiting for the perfect candidate to add their experiences to ours. The delivery of education is just one of many areas in our community that need special attention as we transition to a world in which COVID-19 will be a constant concern until the development of an effective vaccine. You can help by spreading the word about this opportunity.

Please review the job description for full details and instructions on how to apply.

Chippewas of Nawash Offers Food Support to Off-Reserve Members

The Chippewas of Nawash is pleased to announce the launch of a food support program for off-reserve members. The Council understands that the COVID-19 crisis has increased the stress on all households, whether that is caused by a lack of employment, or the health concerns of risking infection by simply shopping for groceries. In response Council has increased the resources of the Nawash Food Bank significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, so that it is better able to serve the community. We know, however, that our members are struggling everywhere during this difficult time. To assist members off-reserve, the Council is working with HelloFresh Canada, a meal subscription service. HelloFresh packages meal ingredients and recipes into one convenient box and delivers them directly to the home.

Under the Nawash HelloFresh Program, which will operate from June 7 to June 18, off-reserve member households in Canada can select 4 recipes from HelloFresh, for delivery to their home. Applicants to the program must be a Chippewas of Nawash Band Member, living off-reserve in Canada.

Applications open today, May 28th. Visit the Nawash HelloFresh Registration page for more information on the program and how to apply.

Large Item Pick-Up Scheduled for June 16

The Nawash Roads Department advises that Large Item Pick-Up will begin on Tuesday, June 16, 2020. If you have a large household item to dispose of, mark your calendar now and get ready to de-clutter your space. Large items include things like furniture, appliances, and household machinery.

All large items must be left at the road side, out of traffic, and arranged neatly and safely for pick up. No back tracking is available.

Note that only large household items will be accepted. The crews will not pick up loose or bagged trash. The Nawash Landfill is open to all residents, every Thursday and Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM for trash disposal.

 

School to Remain Closed for Remainder of Semester

The Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation Board of Education have carefully monitored the developments of the pandemic. In the interest of protecting the health and safety of our children, families, staff and community, the Kikendaasogamig Elementary School will remain closed until the end of June.

The Board recognizes that education instruction and learning has taken an unusual turn in light of the current circumstances.  We also know, however, that our students, families and staff have risen to the challenges and shown determination and commitment to their educational achievements.

We will continue to work toward the evolution of education through 2020. Creative ways to acknowledge graduation milestones for students of grade 8 and grade 12 are currently being explored.   A Summer Learning Initiative is also being considered to not only combat summer learning loss, but to maintain connections with other students and teachers, support students with special learning needs and to further prepare students for fall 2020.

The standard school year format is currently being researched and examined to not only accommodate the potential continuation of online learning, but also to be more balanced and inclusive of land-based learning and the unique culture of our community and our nation.

For social or emotional supports, please contact one of the following health or mental health resources:

Neyaashiinigmiing Testing and Results

COVID-19 Testing Update: The Nawash Health Centre is pleased to report that the results for all tests conducted at the May 12 and May 19 test clinics are NEGATIVE. There are no confirmed COVID-19 cases in Neyaashiinigmiing at this time.

Tuesday, May 26 is the last scheduled day of testing. The Testing Clinic will be open from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, at the Kikendaasogamig Elementary School, for walk-in or drive-by testing. There is no cost for the test, but please bring your health card if you have one.

More details about the Testing Site can be found here.