Advocating for Change: North West Family Medicine Site’s New Advocacy Committee

At the North West Family Medicine residency site, located in North Battleford, the spirit of community engagement has always been a priority. This commitment to outreach took a significant step forward with the formation of the advocacy committee, spearheaded by first-year resident Dr. Anum Ali. This initiative marks a new chapter in connecting with and supporting the local community, particularly its most vulnerable populations.

The idea for the advocacy committee originated from the site director, Dr. Aaron Prystupa, and site administrator, Kristen Huebner, who saw the potential for structured outreach activities to make a tangible difference. Their vision included meaningful projects, such as food drives, to foster deeper connections with the community. Dr. Ali eagerly volunteered to lead the effort, guiding the committee in its mission to create sustainable and impactful programs.

Building Connections: Key Contributors and Partnerships

The advocacy committee has been a collaborative effort, involving residents, faculty, local businesses, and partners with lived experiences. A standout contributor is Fred, a community member in recovery who has become a passionate advocate for the Rapid Access Addictions Medicine (RAAM) Clinic. Fred’s role has been pivotal in establishing trust with populations that have historically faced significant barriers. His insights and connections have been invaluable, helping the committee tailor its outreach efforts effectively.

Local businesses have also played a crucial role. For example, “The Blend,” a North Battleford restaurant, generously donates 60 gourmet sandwiches and coffee each month, ensuring that food provided is not only safe but also thoughtfully prepared.

The First Food Distribution Initiative

The committee’s first project, a monthly food distribution initiative, launched as a collaborative effort with the RAAM Clinic. The program focuses on providing food, coffee, snacks, and, with the approach of winter, warm clothing items to meet immediate community needs. Held on the third Saturday of every month, the initiative is designed to be sustainable and easily adopted by future residents.

Dr. Ali highlighted the importance of adaptability, explaining that while the team approached the project with thorough planning, some elements unfolded organically. "We recognized this first attempt as a learning experience and embraced the reality that we’d need to refine our process along the way."

Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead

Organizing the food distribution initiative was not without challenges. Branding was a priority to ensure the committee’s efforts were cohesive and recognizable. Safety and inclusivity were also key considerations, with the RAAM Clinic providing logistical support, including transportation.

One humorous but practical lesson involved the need for scissors—an essential tool for opening packages in cold weather. These small but significant learnings have helped the committee improve with each iteration.

Financial sustainability remains a challenge. The committee plans to explore funding opportunities through government grants, community fundraisers, and resident-led activities. These efforts aim to secure the resources needed to expand and sustain their outreach.

Community Response and Impact

The community’s response to the initiative has been overwhelmingly positive. Local physicians and partners have commended the program’s significance and impact. Residents have found the experience deeply rewarding, fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity both within their cohort and with the wider community.

Dr. Jessica Kainth, a first-year resident, shared her thoughts: “It has been such a positive experience working with the people of North Battleford to help make sure everyone has food to eat. The response from the community has been great!”

A Mission for Long-Term Change

Looking ahead, the advocacy committee aims to build on its initial success by expanding into other areas of community outreach. Potential future projects include partnerships with the local humane society and other initiatives that address diverse community needs. By fostering a culture of empathy and service, the committee hopes to create lasting connections that empower individuals and promote inclusivity.

Dr. Ali summarized the committee’s mission: “As resident doctors, we recognize the importance of understanding and connecting with the community to provide more empathetic and effective care. This initiative is not only about providing aid but also about building bridges and creating a sense of belonging for everyone involved.”

With a focus on sustainability, collaboration, and compassion, the North West Family Medicine advocacy committee is paving the way for a brighter future in North Battleford.