aisokinakio’p clinic
In Blackfoot aisokinakio’p means…
“A place where you take your body and mind to make it healthy.”
Indigenous communities continue to face the highest rates of COVID-19 in terms of cases and fatalities in Canada, meaning the need to deliver vaccines and positive messaging surrounding vaccination remains urgent. Immunization has long been the best way to protect ourselves and one another, but vaccine accessibility has hurt these efforts since the get go.
aisokinakio’p is an Indigenous-led COVID-19 immunization clinic delivering vaccines to some of Calgary’s most vulnerable. This first of its kind initiative sees partners from across the City coming together to set up vaccination clinics that are accessible, safe, welcoming and family-friendly.
aisokinakio’p was launched in March 2022 by The Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary, Siksika Health Services, OKAKI and Awo Taan Healing Lodge. This impactful partnership has since expanded to include Seven Brothers Circle, the Calgary Homeless Foundation, Metis Nation of Alberta – Region 3 and the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society. All partners share the same aim of ensuring as many shots as possible get into the arms of those community members most in need.
Our Partners
Alberta Dental Association & College
Alberta Health Services
Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association
Awo Taan Healing Lodge
Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth
Calgary Catholic Immigration Society
Calgary Foundation
Calgary Homeless Foundation
Circle of Wisdom Elders & Seniors Centre
City of Calgary
Government of Alberta
Government of Canada
Helly Hansen
National Association of Friendship Centres
Safeway Pharmacy
Sobeys Pharmacy
United Way Calgary
The aisokinakio’p clinics located in the NE Calgary communities and downtown core serve members of our urban indigenous population, newcomers to the City and other vulnerable community members, including those who are homeless or in permanent support housing units.
aisokinakio’p understands that barriers to accessing health services still exist and some have genuine concerns around immunization programs. Our clinics therefore prioritize cultural safety and countering misinformation, ensuring all are welcome, able to ask any questions and express any concerns, as well as receive the most up to date and accurate information.
Since its launch, aisokinakio’p has immunized more than 10,000 community members through two clinics and four mobile units. This March sees us expanding our efforts even further, continuing to reach out to the most vulnerable and now to young people aged 12 and over.
