Reggie Tomatuk and other CBHSSJB personnel deployed with the Canadian Red Cross
Reggie Tomatuk is one of four Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay (CBHSSJB) employees to have been deployed with the Canadian Red Cross (CRC) to experience firsthand how expertise and partnership can lead to successful emergency response.
This particular mission, from late June to early July, supported residents of the Sandy Lake First Nation who were affected by the Ontario wildfires and evacuated to Barrie, Ontario.
In partnership with the CRC, the evacuation was hosted by ISN Maskwa, an Indigenous-Led Community Support. Their approach—guided by the Seven Grandfather Teachings: Truth, Honesty, Respect, Humility, Wisdom, Bravery, and Love—helped build strong relationships and trust with the evacuees. Their leadership and presence made a meaningful difference on the ground.
Reggie, alongside Kellyann Meloche, MHU Coordinator, CBHSSJB, acted as Indigenous Advisors, offering support rooted in Indigenous language, values and traditions by serving as a cultural mediator and liaison between the community and the CRC.
“It was an honour to serve our people, our neighbours, and Indigenous communities during this crisis. Alongside ISN Maskwa and the Canadian Red Cross, I believe our collective efforts made a real impact in this time of need.” – Reggie Tomatuk
Reggie and Kellyann also conducted wellness checks with evacuees and supported the Canadian Red Cross in distributing essential supplies such as diapers, personal hygiene items, baby formula, and other necessities to meet the urgent needs of families.
Reggie, from Chisasibi, and the other CBHSSJB employees return to their home communities more knowledgeable and inspired to support Eeyou Istchee in emergency response.
The CBHSSJB is thankful for its ongoing partnership with the CRC which continuously provides employees with opportunities to learn with experts, take part in impactful initiatives and share their knowledge in Indigenous territory, population and culture.
