Press Release
In response to a request from Tikinagan Child and Family Services of Sioux Lookout, the staff at Family and Children’s Services of the District of Rainy River is mobilizing to gather food and clothing for the children of Pikangikum First Nation.
Pikangikum, located 100 km northwest of Red Lake, is suffering from extreme social problems, including lack of housing, lack of sewer and water, substance abuse, and the threat of H1N1.
It is a large community that has experienced rapid growth.
One study indicates the population of this community has grown nearly 50 percent since 1990–from 1,275 to roughly 2,400.
This large population growth has had a significant impact on infrastructure, programs, and services available.
Despite having one of the highest growth rates in Canada, Pikangikum is running out of land to build adequate housing.
There are very few jobs available, and many families have large numbers of children (some numbering from 10 or more children).
According to 1996 census data, 47 percent of the population is under the age of 15.
The community also suffered the loss of its school to fire recently. Although a temporary school was set up, it is estimated as many as 300-400 children are not attending school.
With no school to attend, and very limited recreational activities, many children and youth resort to gas sniffing.
In the past two years, there have been at least 26 deaths by suicide.
Many of the adults in the community have serious addiction problems, and as a result many children are admitted into Tikinagan’s care.
The overall situation has led to a severe shortage of resources for children. An organization called the North South Partnership for Children has been established to provide support to northern First Nation communities and is assisting with the crisis in Pikangikum.
The following items are urgently needed for the children of Pikangikum:
•cases of Enfamil infant formula (with iron);
•cases of Pampers (sizes four-six);
•winter clothing, including hats, mittens, boots, and jackets;
•infant clothes, fleece blankets, ski pants, and wool socks; and
•flour, Carnation milk, Kraft dinner, sugar, tea, and baby food.
Monetary donations also would be greatly appreciated.
A 12-member committee at FACS has been assembled to respond to this urgent request.
While drop-off sites will be established throughout Rainy River District, the public, organizations, and businesses of the district are asked to begin dropping off items at the FACS offices in Fort Frances and Atikokan.
Pick-up also will be available.
For more information on how you can help, call Martene Nelson at 274-7787 ext. 267.
