SHA Indigenous Foodways – A Path Forward

In the winter of 2021, the Saskatchewan Health Authority undertook an initiative in Saskatoon to learn about local Indigenous foodways and how the organization can better address the health and healing needs of Métis and First Nations patients, clients and residents through food.  

“Food really is our medicine – a common belief in Métis and First Nations populations – and we want to do our part to provide food that will respect Indigenous traditional foodways,” said Charlotte Pilat Burns, Transition Specialist, Nutrition and Food Services.

“Members of the Saskatoon Nutrition and Food Services team spent time with Elders and Knowledge Keepers learning on the land; and five local Métis and First Nations chefs joined us in the kitchen to share their knowledge and prepare meals using traditional ingredients,” explained Pilat Burns.

“By embedding these fundamental teachings into our processes, a foundation that is respectful of First Nations and Métis knowledge systems is being created,” she added.  

This initiative was made possible through support Nutrition and Food Services received from a team of SHA partners, including First Nations and Métis Health and Patient Family Partners.  Funding was provided through a grant from the Nourish Front Line Fund. 

Indigenous Foodways is honouring and in accordance with the SHA’s commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation – Calls to Action.
A video was created about this initiative. It can be viewed on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wkgpA4s9xHA