The blessings were bountiful for the new Snaw-naw-as health centre on March 15 as a special ceremony was held for community members.

After the cleansing, Chief David Bob said the building was a new home for community members. “This place has character. It stands out on its own. It belongs to Snaw-naw-as. It belongs to us. As of today, it is ours.”

It has been 16 months since the ground was broken for the $2 million facility that will offer modern treatments and traditional healing methods. The 4,000-square-foot health centre is located on the hillside overlooking Nanoose Bay and is adjacent to the Tsow-tun Le Lum treatment centre.

“We built this place, but we can’t make you come,” told community members. “I hope you will all utilize it. If it wasn’t for all of you, this building wouldn’t be here.”

Chief Bob said that the centre’s location and layout was intentional in order to make sure that it would be well used. “We eliminated the excuse that there will be no privacy. If you want to, you can make an appointment and they will be able to let you in the back door.