Niagara Health recognized for Indigenous reconciliation efforts

The hospitals within Niagara Health are the first in Canada to receive a shipment of Indigenous-supplied medical gloves.

That follows with Niagara Health being heralded as the first in Canada to be called a Reconciliation Champion by an Indigenous partner for the hospital’s ongoing efforts to support self-determination, economic independence, and improved health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples.

Medical, Surgical and Safety Supplies (MSS) Ltd. presented Angela Zangari, Executive Vice-President, Finance, Redevelopment and Facilities, and Chief Financial Officer, and Niagara Health Board Chair Marylee O’Neill with a plaque at a recent Board meeting in recognition of several actions Niagara Health has taken toward reconciliation.

MSS, a Certified Aboriginal Business and social enterprise based in Hay River, NWT, now supplies Niagara Health with acute care, nitrile medical gloves it manufactures with PRIMED Medical Products.

“Part of our teachings is to consider the sacrifice of the seven generations before us and the impact on seven generations after us. Partnerships, such as this with MSS, have the potential to create an impact for our communities long into the future,” says Charity Beland, Niagara Health’s Manager of Indigenous Health Services and Reconciliation.

“For Niagara Health to build relationships with a positive social impact, supporting both business development as well as local communities is a bold step in working towards creating a more inclusive and equitable future for our Indigenous communities.”

MSS President James Hiebert of the Turtle Clan, Mohawk Nation said that Niagara Health is leading the way.

“We’re making this presentation because it’s important, for awareness, that this is happening. As well, the leaders leading reconciliation are the groups achieving and creating action, and they need to be recognized for putting reconciliation into action.”

“As an Indigenous leader, I urge other Indigenous youth to get involved and participate across the supply chains of Canada,” Hiebert continued. “There are institutions and people that believe in reconciliation and Niagara Health has shown that they are willing to forge a path and set standards for other healthcare organizations across Canada.”