JFM GRANT PROVIDES ACCESS TO INFORMATION FOR COMMUNITIES
Access to cancer care has been a longstanding
challenge for many underserved communities
in Manitoba, increasing the number of cases,
and affecting the survival rate. Recognizing
this need, CancerCare Manitoba (CCMB) and
the Manitoba Metis Federation created the
Community Profiles Website with the help of
a JFM Community Impact Grant.
The site was designed to provide options for
individuals in underserved communities who
are facing or have a cancer diagnosis, with
information like where to go for treatment,
where they can be seen, and how they can get
there.
"We don't want any Manitoban not to
be able to receive the care they need," says
Sharon Loewen, Development Manager at
CancerCare Manitoba Foundation Inc. "We
want to remove any barriers there may be for
these people."
A key aspect of this initiative lies in its
collaborative approach. Partnering with
indigenous organizations across Manitoba
allows the website to cater to the community's
needs.
"When working with northern communities
and underserved populations, information is key," says Loewen. "By using these
partnerships, we're able to make sure
that patients have accurate and relevant
information for their situations."
The website provides resources for those
navigating their diagnoses with information
about treatment options, healthcare facilities,
transportation logistics, childcare support,
and more. The platform enables individuals to
make informed decisions as they confidently
navigate their cancer journey.
Loewen explains that another terrific part of
the project was the creation of the logo.
Designed by Indigenous artists, each item
represents a community served by this
resource. The logo acts as a piece that gives
the communities a sense of pride when
others receive help as well.
The website helps tackle an issue that has
been around for a long time and will continue
to be relevant, though it will ultimately help in
the fight against it moving forward.
"We are confident that this resource can
make a huge difference in these communities,"
says Loewen. "We may not feel the change
immediately, but in the coming years, it will have a terrific impact, reducing the number of
cases and helping to improve survival rates."
Launched in late 2023, this site has
already begun to affect the availability and
accessibility of cancer care accessibility
across the province. The site has already seen
significant engagement with over 5,000 users
and has begun to expand to support many
health care areas in the province.
We invite you to visit
ccmbindigenouscommunityprofiles.ca
to see the entirety of the communities
served, and the resources offered.