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Public Health a Community Effort: Health Unit Honours Local Partners
NORTH BAY, ON — Public health is not confined to clinics or offices—it is happening all around us, every day, through strong partnerships rooted in care for people and community. In recognition of Canadian Public Health Week, the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit (Health Unit) is celebrating community partners and individuals whose work helps protect, promote, and advance the health and well-being of people across the North Bay and Parry Sound districts.
“Public health happens throughout the community, including where people live, learn, work, and connect,” said Dr. Carol Zimbalatti, medical officer of health. “The partners we’re recognizing show that improving health is a shared effort, and that meaningful change happens when organizations and individuals work together with empathy, adaptability, and a deep understanding of community needs.”
The Health Unit is honoured to recognize the following partners for their impactful public health contributions in 2025. These collaborations support the goals outlined in the Ontario Public Health Standards and the Health Unit’s Strategic Plan, with a strong focus on health equity, prevention and community well‑being.
AIDS Committee of North Bay and Area (ACNBA)
ACNBA is recognized for its strong commitment to health equity, accessibility, and compassionate, client‑centered care. Through harm reduction, food security initiatives, nursing care, outreach, testing, treatment, and counselling, ACNBA addresses immediate health needs while supporting long‑term health and well‑being.
“ACNBA’s work is a powerful example of what equity‑focused care looks like in practice,” said Dr. Zimbalatti. “By meeting people where they are and providing non‑judgmental, inclusive services, ACNBA helps reduce barriers to care and builds trust with communities that are too often marginalized.”
Georgian Bay Biosphere – Mnidoo Gamii
Georgian Bay Biosphere – Mnidoo Gamii is recognized for its integral role in promoting sustainable food systems and fostering connections between people, the environment, and health. Through local food and gardening workshops, community engagement initiatives, and regional leadership, the organization supports skill‑building, healthy living, and environmental stewardship.
“As a public health system, we know that a healthy planet and access to healthy food are foundational to overall well‑being,” said Dr. Zimbalatti. “The work of Georgian Bay Biosphere shows how environmental sustainability and public health are deeply interconnected, and how local action can have lasting, positive impacts on human health and the health of the world around us.”
As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Georgian Bay Biosphere has led food programs since 2008, including the Grown by the Bay Guide, and manages 80 free community garden plots across the region. Gardeners donate 20 per cent of their harvest to local food programs, helping to build and strengthen community food connections.
True Self – Debwewendizwin
True Self – Debwewendizwin is recognized for its exceptional leadership in peer‑led outreach, harm reduction, and culturally safe public health work. An Indigenous‑led organization through Nipissing First Nation, True Self provides culturally grounded, non‑judgmental support to individuals experiencing poverty, homelessness, and discrimination.
“True Self – Debwewendizwin demonstrates the importance of culturally informed, peer‑based approaches,” said Dr. Zimbalatti. “Their work strengthens trust, improves access to care, and supports healing in ways that are deeply respectful and responsive to community realities.”
Kirk Hewitt, North Bay Jail Health Centre
Registered Nurse Kirk Hewitt and his colleagues at the North Bay Jail’s Health Centre are recognized for their compassionate, client‑focused approach to health in a challenging setting. Working with individuals facing complex mental health concerns, trauma, and substance use challenges, Kirk and his team consistently treat people with respect, empathy, and without judgment.
“Health equity must include people in all settings, including correctional environments,” said Dr. Zimbalatti. “Kirk’s commitment to seeing the person first and working collaboratively to support disease prevention, harm reduction, and access to services reflect a true public health partnership.”
Through his collaboration with Communicable Disease Control and Sexual Health programs at the Health Unit, Kirk contributes to preventing the spread of infectious diseases while supporting the dignity and well‑being of those in his care.
Public Health Is a Collective Effort
Additional organizations and individuals who wish to remain anonymous were also presented with a certificate of recognition from the Health Unit.
“These recognitions remind us that protecting and promoting health is something we do together,” said Dr. Zimbalatti. “I am deeply grateful to our partners for their dedication and leadership, and for the essential role they play in creating a healthy community for all.”
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Media Inquiries
Kylie Wurdell, Public Relations Specialist
P: 705-474-1400, ext.5221 or 1-800-563-2808
E: communications@healthunit.ca
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