Tribal Home Visiting
Traditionally, pregnancy is a sacred state of being.
Keeping Ikwe (woman) and Abinoojiiyenhs (baby) safe and healthy has always been an honorable and expected way of life for Anishinaabe. When a woman knew she was expecting, the life inside became her first thought. She was very aware of the need to (zaagichigaazowin) “love and treasure them” right from the start.
The Tribal Home Visiting Program utilizes the Maajitaag Minoayaawin curriculum and is designed to complement, not replace, prenatal, postpartum, and pediatric medical care. The program is available to all expectant families, as well as families with children under five years old, who receive care at the Lac Vieux Desert Health Center. In addition to providing support and education during pregnancy, the program also focuses on helping women become and stay healthy before and between pregnancies. We affirm the sacred role of women in the community as givers of life and promote an understanding of the importance of family well-being and the health of women, fathers, and Abinojiinh (child) throughout the lifespan.
Maajitaag Minoayaawin (Maji- tog Mino-ayaa-win)
“A Start of a Healthy Life”
Seven Anishinaabe Teachings:
NIBWAAKAAWIN – WISDOM
ZAAGI’IDIWIN – LOVE
MANAADJITOOWIN – RESPECT
ZOOGIDE’EWIN – COURAGE
GWAYAKWAADIZIWIN – HONESTY
DABASENIMOWIN – HUMILITY
DEBWEWIN – TRUTH
What Do We Have to Offer?
- We use the Family Spirit Curriculum to provide culturally rooted support and parenting education, helping caregivers guide their children's healthy growth and development
- Visits with our family wellness coordinator at your home, our office, or another convenient location
- Community gatherings, family outgoings, and events
- Family supplies and resources available for actively participating families
- Developmental observations using tools such as the PICCOLO and ages and stages questionaires to support each child's growth and learning
- Assistance with referrals to community and health services
- Transportation to medical and other appointments outside of LVDHC
- Car seat education and installation assistance with a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician
- Doula services available for pregnancy, birth, and postpartum support
What do we hope to accomplish?
Rooted in our traditions and our respect for the sacred gift of life, we support families throughout pregnancy and into parenthood. Our program strengthens the wellness of mothers, fathers, other caregivers, and children by fostering balance, connection, and resilience in our community.
Familly Wellness Market
Family Wellness Market is a program where one can earn incentives by:
- Enrollment in the Family Wellness Program
- Actively participating in home visits
- Completing family spirit lessons
- Meeting educational goals
- Keeping up with well child exams
- Attending WIC visits
- Completing car seat education
- Sobriety
Supplies We Offer
- Diapers and Wipes
- Car Seats
- Formula
- Strollers
- Health and Wellness Supplies
- Cribs
- Breast Pumps
- Baby Gates
- Pack and Plays
About Bella (Giizhibaabinesiik)
Bella McGeshick is originally from Watersmeet, Michigan, and holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Northern Michigan University. She enjoys spending time with her family, visiting Lake Superior, coloring, and relaxing with her cats. She believes in meeting families where they are both physically and emotionally and helping them feel empowered, supported, and connected on their parenting journey.
Contact Information:
Bella McGeshick
Family Wellness Coordinator
N5241 US HWY 45 - PO Box 9
Watersmeet, MI 49969