A bench from a local First Nation carver with Pioneer Log Homes was officially unveiled at Deni House in Williams Lake Tuesday morning.
Director of Aboriginal Health Brad Anderson says Interior Health had an opportunity to give some seed money all of their seven First Nations for an art initiative.
“Really what the Nation wanted for their area specific to put into our facility within Interior Health. It really has a welcoming space and builds towards cultural safety and supports our staff as well and of course, our clients that access our facilities.”
TNG Traditional Wellness Coordinator Jimmy Lulua says his brother who has been working for Pioneer Log Homes for about 13 years built the bench.
“When I came in as a traditional wellness coordinator there was a turnover in staff so I was put in place and in a small town it really comes down to who you know and my brother was who got it done.”
Jimmy’s brother spent eight days crafting the bench which will remain outside of the patio area at Deni House.
“I think it’s really important to include Pioneer as they donate to a lot of organizations,” says Lulua.
“I see them as a really important piece in Williams Lake.”