London
London is located in south western Ontario. Known for its large number of parks and green space, London is also known as the “Forest City”. Surrounding London there are several First Nations communities, including three within a 30 minute drive – Oneida of the Thames, Chippewa of the Thames, and Munsee-Delaware First Nations.
According to Statistics Canada in 2006, 6,200 Aboriginal people lived the census metropolitan area of London, making up 1.4% of the overall city population. First Nations represent the majority of this population (74%), with 22% of Aboriginal people identifying as Métis and only 1% identified as Inuit.
The Aboriginal population in London is younger than the non-Aboriginal population.The median age for non-Aboriginal populations in London was 28.6 years, compared with 26.6 year for Aboriginal populations in 2006. In addition, the First Nations population has a younger demographic when compared to the Métis population in London.
The unemployment rate for the Aboriginal core working age population (aged 25 to 54) in London was higher than that of the non-Aboriginal population (8.5% compared to 4.5%). Although unemployment rates were higher for Aboriginal women than they were for Aboriginal men, Aboriginal women in London are more likely to complete a university degree compared to Aboriginal men. Aboriginal youth (15 to 24 years) are more likely to be unemployed compared to non-Aboriginal youth. In addition to high unemployment rates, 33% of Aboriginal people live under The Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO). This rate increases for Aboriginal children under the age of 14 years, with 45% of children living under the LICO.
Unemployment and living under the Low Income Cut Off can have severe consequences for obtaining nutritious sources of food. These and the other social determinants of health can have profound effects on the health of children, youth, and the overall Aboriginal population.
The N'Amerind (London) Friendship Centre is a non-profit organization committed to the promotion of physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual well-being of Native people and in particular, Urban Native People.
The commitment is realized through the implementation of culturally relevant programs aimed at social, recreational and educational needs, at developing leadership, at increasing awareness levels of native heritage, establishing resources for community development, and in promoting the development of urban aboriginal self-governing institutions.
Hello! My name is Alyssa Heil and I am an Oneida woman and currently live in St. Thomas with my husband. I've recently graduated from Western University with a BA in Sociology and a minor in Disability Studies. I also hold a Social Service Worker diploma from Canadore College. I've always been interested in helping people and being involved in the community which is why my work as the London Site Coordinator with Healthy Weights Connection is a great position for me.
I'm excited to start building strong relationships in the community while maintaing the great relationships with our partners and to work together for the good of our children and youth. I look forward to working with you!
Phone 519-661-2111 ext. 80433
Email [email protected]
