The Kwikwetlem First Nation is holding a golf tournament and gala this summer to raise funds for a planned wellness centre that will provide doctors, a pharmacy, a dentist and other health services in a building on reserve lands in Port Coquitlam.
Liz Charyna, development consultant, and Alexis Grace, health director, said the first phase of the Kwikwetlem Comprehensive Wellness Centre could get underway as early as this fall but support is needed to bring the plan to fruition.
“We want to be part of the bigger solution,” said Grace, who added that the wellness centre would provide health and dental care as well as acupuncture, physiotherapy and chiropractic services to local members as well as other urban First Nations and the general public.
Traditional healing methods would also be part of the programming, Grace said.
“We’re looking at making it a wrap-around hub,” she explained, adding that the idea grew out of a comprehensive plan for the Kwikwetlem lands and was approved by its members, who number more than 100 on the reserve.
KFN Coun. Fred Hulbert said the initiative is welcome because it will not only fill gaps in medical care but will provide a traditional approach to delivering health care, not only caring for the body but also the spiritual and cultural health of members.
Eventually, it could have a treatment centre, a daycare and pre-school, and provide employment opportunities for KFN members.
The first annual KFN charity golf tournament and gala will be held Aug. 24 at the Pitt Meadows Golf and Country Club. Each ticket includes 18 holes of golf, a power cart, goody bag, snacks and the chance to win some prizes. A gala will follow the tournament, with a sit-down dinner, starting at 6 p.m.
Charyna, who is organizing the event, said people are encouraged to register and sponsors and prizes are being sought, with information available at www.kwikwetlem.com/golf.htm.
