IRF Project Collections
Projects Supported by the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund
(New projects added every month)
The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund supports initiatives that address the historical trauma, intergenerational impacts and systemic injustices faced by Indigenous people.
Grants are provided for programs and projects that promote emotional, mental and physical healing for communities and families, ultimately contributing to a path of reconciliation and restoration of
well-being.
Because We Are
Stereotypes will tell us that poverty is caused by factors within an individuals’ control, but the reality is much more complex. Indigenous Peoples are eight times more likely to experience homelessness due to a systemic cycle of oppression, racism and discrimination. Intergenerational trauma and the breakdown of traditional supports has led to loss of identity and spiritual displacement.
A Guiding Change
Change begins with a single idea. For Marie Keeshig, a member of Neyaashiinigmiing First Nation in Ontario, her commitment to tackle youth addiction and homelessness in her community began after her niece passed away from a drug overdose. Stories like this are not rare, especially in remote Nations facing barriers to critical mental health services. There is an endemic of Indigenous youth struggling across Canada who need lifesaving safe spaces to turn to.
Preserving and revitalizing Indigenous cultures and languages allows Indigenous communities to reconnect with their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Through grants provided for language revitalization programs, traditional arts and crafts or cultural education initiatives, Indigenous traditions and identities are celebrated and can be passed down to future generations.
Re-awakening Ancestral Ways of Knowing at Star Blanket Cree Nation
Many issues within Indigenous family systems stem from the trauma experienced at residential schools, leading to the loss of ancestral knowledge, value systems, ceremonies, language, and identity. These losses often result in the abuse of substances, alcohol, devices, and even other people.
Education and community building are key drivers of reconciliation efforts. Funds provided for educational programs, workshops and community-building activities can help bridge knowledge gaps, strengthen ties between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people and promote a deeper understanding of Indigenous history, experiences and knowledge.
Ben Calf Robe School Nurtures Bodies and Minds with Nutrition Program
Ben Calf Robe School (BCR) in Edmonton, Alberta, serves over 450 students, most of whom are Indigenous. The school offers an educational experience deeply rooted in Indigenous culture and ways of knowing, and healing and reconciliation are part of the daily experience for students.
St. Kateri Student Bursary Continues to Empower Indigenous Education
In Thunder Bay, Ontario, the St. Kateri Student Bursary program has been supporting Indigenous students pursuing higher education. Funded by the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF), the bursary looks to empower Northern Indigenous youth by alleviating financial barriers to education and promoting cultural pride. The response from students, teachers, and guidance counselors has been overwhelmingly positive, underscoring the importance of accessible education in Indigenous communities.
Grants are available to support programs, gatherings and events that facilitate the reconnection with and celebration of Indigenous spirituality and cultural practices.
These initiatives are an opportunity to foster awareness and appreciation of Indigenous worldviews, values and spiritual beliefs and contribute to a more inclusive society where Indigenous voices and traditions are honored and respected.
