Positive Living North has developed an innovative program called the Fire Pit in response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic Northern BC communities are experiencing.

The prevention program’s unique design targets the root causes of the epidemic: colonization, racism, poverty, homelessness, lack of education and the displacement many Aboriginal people experience.

The Fire Pit’s philosophy directly reflects how creating a safe space, where trust is established, leads to healing from the root causes of this epidemic.  In the street-level setting of the Fire Pit, we engage in activities which encourage people to feel safe and to value themselves.  This process allows people to take part in cultural activities that lead to healing and reduce risky behaviors.

The Fire Pit is a place where people can gather to relax with friends, learn, share and understand culture, health and community.  It is a place where you can do crafts, artwork, have a bite to eat, join a talking circle, talk to supportive staff and get more information about health, HIV/AIDS and HCV.

The healing journey experienced at the Fire Pit is aimed at moving a person along a path from being at-risk toward a place of less risk.  Reducing at-risk behavior through engaging in healthier sexual practices and other harm-reduction strategies becomes more relevant to people when they have had an opportunity to heal and learn about themselves.  This journey takes both time and a supportive environment.