Residents of Norway House Cree Nation are being encouraged to access free and confidential mental health support through a 24-hour phone service. Although Norway House is located within the Northern Health Region, Prairie Mountain Health is leading the promotion of the service because it manages the provincial program from its offices in Brandon.
The specialized service is known as the Manitoba Farm, Rural and Northern Support Services (MFRNSS) and is operated by Klinic Community Health. People of all ages can call to speak with counsellors who have lived experience in rural or northern communities, ensuring they understand the specific challenges faced by those living in more isolated areas.
This phone-based support acts as a critical safety net alongside the Kinosew Sipi Nanatawiwekamik Health Centre of Excellence, which held its grand opening in July 2024. While the health centre provides a wide range of in-person care, the provincial lines offer immediate, anonymous crisis intervention at any time of day.
Residents can reach the MFRNSS specialized line at 1-866-367-3276. For 24/7 crisis support, they can also call the Klinic Crisis Line at 1-888-322-3019. According to Shared Health Manitoba, these services are designed to support Manitobans who may feel isolated or live far from centralized health offices.
