MMF opens first-of-its-kind COVID testing site for Métis Citizens

January 18, 2021

Winnipeg, MB in the Homeland of Métis Nation -The Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) will be opening a COVID-19 testing site for its Métis Citizens. The MMF has partnered with Intrinsic Analytics to collect and process the testing samples. The testing site will be operational starting Monday, January 18, 2021.

"Understandably, all Manitobans are getting frustrated with the long wait times and delays in getting test results," commented MMF Minister of Health & Wellness Frances Chartrand. "By opening this testing site in Winnipeg, your Métis Government will be able to offer an alternative for Métis Citizens in Winnipeg and surrounding areas to get COVID-19 testing done in a timely manner."

All appointments must be booked through the MMF's Health & Wellness department by calling toll free to 1-833-390-1041. The MMF will then work with partners to get Métis Citizens' appointments scheduled and help coordinate the rest of the process.

"This partnership with Intrinsic Analytics opened up a massive opportunity that your Métis Government knew we had to jump on," stated MMF President David Chartrand. "Getting these tests done is critical. While you are exhibiting symptoms and awaiting test results, you cannot go out. This becomes more difficult when waiting for appointments and results while you have other responsibilities to attend to."

Test results will be accurately completed within 24 hours of the test being administered. All symptomatic Citizens will be tested curbside in their vehicle, while asymptomatic Citizens will be tested indoors.

"By offering this alternative, our Métis Citizens can now get their test results done faster and return to work and running errands to support their family quicker," stated President Chartrand. "Your Métis Government has your back and we are proud to offer this first-of-its-kind support that will help our Citizens return to the workforce and assist our families through these difficult times.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has been a long journey, and with the number of vaccines being earmarked for the Manitoba Métis Community still up in the air; we are unsure when the light is coming at the end of the tunnel. In the fall, we witnessed that the province was not prepared for an influx of testing and we need to make sure our Citizens are taken care of," added President Chartrand. "Our Citizens have expressed a number of concerns with the current COVID-19 testing process such as access to tests, delays receiving results, and trying to navigate a difficult and unorganized process. We want our Citizens to rest assured that we will be there to assist them as we continue this battle against the COVID-19 pandemic."

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Believe in Yourself; Believe in Métis.

The Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) is the democratic self-governing political representative for the Métis Nation's Manitoba Métis Community. The Manitoba Métis Community is Canada's Partner in Confederation and the Founder of the Province of Manitoba.

For media information, please contact:

Kat Patenaude
Manitoba Metis Federation
Cell: 204-801-7710
Email: Kat.Patenaude@mmf.mb.ca

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