Supporting families and exploring the health priorities of Métis children in Ontario
Sabastian Koprich is a Master of Public health student in the Indigenous Health stream at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, and current Leong Centre Studentship Award Recipient. His collaborative research project titled, Voicing the Health Needs of Métis Children in Ontario, which aims to address health programming gaps for Métis children aged 5 – 15.
Health disparities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous children are well-documented, but research on Métis children's specific health needs remains limited. Existing studies often focus on deficits, neglecting the diverse ways of life of Métis communities. Addressing Métis children's health requires a community-driven approach that prioritizes relationality and collective resiliency. This study was initiated in response to gaps in programming for school-aged children, identified by the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) as part of Canada’s distinction-based health legislation. The research explores the health priorities of Métis children Ontario, with a particular focus on improving wellness programming and community support.
Team Composition
Sabastian Koprich (Principal Investigator): Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) citizen with Georgian Bay roots. Graduating with an MPH from the University of Toronto this summer.
Shelley Cripps (Primary Knowledge User): MNO citizen and Director of the MNO’s Healing & Wellness Branch.
Helana Maria Boutros (Co-Investigator): Coptic scholar with Upper Egyptian ancestry, pursuing a PhD in anthropology at McMaster University.
Dr. Sarah Edwards (Supervisor): ICES Staff Scientist, Métis Nation of Ontario liaison, and UofT Assistant Professor (status only).
Funding Support: Edwin S.H. Leong Centre for Healthy Children at the University of Toronto and The Hospital for Sick Children.
Methodology
Participants were recruited through MNO communication channels using convenience sampling. Sharing circles, facilitated by an MNO Senator, served as the primary method for data collection. This is a commonly used Indigenous methodology and involves participants sitting in a circle and each having an equal and uninterrupted opportunity to share their experiences. Sharing circles provided a culturally safe, grounding, and reflexive space for parents of Métis children to share their experiences of MNO programming, general health services, and what they hope for their children’s future. Sessions were recorded with participant consent, transcribed, summarized, and verified with participants to ensure accuracy.
Results & Future Directions
Preliminary findings from the study reveal several key issues, including limited health and wellness services for Métis school-aged children, difficulties navigating MNO’s website and programs, and a need for enhanced accessibility, operational resources, and support for children with learning disabilities or mental illness. Additionally, participants expressed a desire for more land-based activities and weaving of Métis cultural identity into wellness programming. Community engagement is also a priority, focusing on opportunities for caregivers and community members to interact.
Moving forward, we are planning to share the findings through MNO communication channels. Insights will guide the development of targeted programming for Métis children within the MNO Healing & Wellness Branch. This initiative addresses immediate health service gaps and aims to strengthen Métis cultural identity and community bonds for future generations.
