KFL&A Public Health is a local public health agency with over 200 staff and 150 volunteers who deliver public health programs and services to the people of the KFL&A area. The underlying goal of its services and programs-from immunization, healthy weights, nutritious eating, food safety, raising healthy babies and children, sexual health, tobacco use reduction, and many other public health areas-is to promote and protect the health of the more than 190,000 residents of the Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington area.
The discovery of mass burial sites near residential schools in Canada is a tragedy of unimaginable proportions. These are stark and disturbing reminders of the violence the Canadian residential school system inflicted upon Indigenous peoples and how the consequences of these atrocities continue to this day. We offer our sincere condolences to Indigenous families and communities who have, and are, experiencing this profound loss.
In memory and respect for all those affected, KFL&A Public Health will continue to support the work of the Indigenous Health Council.
Truth. Justice. Reconciliation. These are needed now more than ever. KFL&A Public Health encourages everyone to take the time to learn about colonialism and the impact on Indigenous peoples. Learn more about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s (TRC) 94 Calls to Action.
The National Indian Residential School Crisis line is 1-866-925-4419. Additional mental health supports are available on our web site.
Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington Public Health works together with our communities to promote and protect the public's health. Our commitment is to provide public health programs and services of the highest quality.
KFL&A Public Health is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee. We recognize the long and distinguished history of the Peoples of this region that predates the establishment of European colonies. We also recognize the significance of this land for Indigenous peoples who have lived, and continue to live, on this land. KFL&A Public Health honours all First Nations, Metis, Inuit and Peoples of Indigenous ancestry and their valuable past and present contributions to this region.
Se:kon (Say go), Aanii (A knee), Boozhoo (Boo ju), Waajiiye (Wa chay ya), Kwe-Kwe (Kway, Kway)
I offer these words in the spirit of this gathering. Let us bring our good minds and hearts together as one, to honour and celebrate these traditional lands as a gathering place of the Original Peoples and their Ancestors who were entrusted to care for Mother Earth since time immemorial. It is with deep humility, that we acknowledge and offer our gratitude for their contributions to this community, having respect for all as we share this space now and walk side-by-side into the future.