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.
Resilient Spirits
Nations across the world are dealing with an unprecedented mental health crisis and Canada is no exception. As we work to find solutions, marginalized communities are falling through the gaps. With systemic barriers in place to access even the most basic of resources, and a deep-rooted distrust of conventional services due to historic treatment, Indigenous Peoples are experiencing disproportionately high rates of mental health challenges.
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.
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.
Uncovering the Forgotten History of Métis Contributions in the Pacific Northwest
The term "Métis" refers to individuals of mixed Indigenous and European heritage, reflecting the blending of two distinct cultures. The Métis Peoples are an integral part of history in the Pacific Northwest (PNW), having played important roles in the region’s economic, social, cultural, and political life. Yet, much of their history has been overlooked or forgotten, their contributions erased from the mainstream narrative. Métis communities have faced systemic discrimination and marginalization.
Moccasin-Making Workshop Reconnects Community to Culture and Traditions
Indigenous communities are working hard to piece together the threads of their cultures after centuries of efforts to erase their traditions. To support this revitalization, the Diocese of Thunder Bay is partnering with two Elders to bring a moccasin-making project to the community, ensuring an authentic and intergenerational learning experience.
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.
