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.
Indigenous Ministries Build Bridges for Healing and Reconciliation
To address historical wrongs, rebuild trust, and foster lasting relationships, Catholic ministries across Canada are working toward reconciliation by bringing together Indigenous culture and the Catholic faith. This commitment has led to the creation of Indigenous ministries within dioceses nationwide, where cultural programs support healing and deepen connections between communities.
Honouring a Sacred Promise
Shockwaves rippled across Canada and the international community in 2021 with the discovery of suspected unmarked graves in British Columbia. For the people of the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and Indigenous people across Canada, it confirmed what they already knew: that hundreds of loved ones who had never returned home from residential school remained forever children.
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.
Hand Drum and Rattle Making Workshops at Kitchitwa Kateri Church
Deacon Michael Robinson is Anishinaabe and Catholic and serves as the Spiritual Director for Kitchitwa Kateri Church in Thunder Bay, Ontario. He provides spiritual direction and counselling services for community members with a focus on Indigenous spirituality, reconciliation and healing and discovery of identity.
Learning Ojibwe: Basic Ojibwe and Culture
The wounds inflicted on Indigenous communities by the residential school system run deep, with one of the most devastating impacts being the suppression of Indigenous languages. The loss of language has left a void in the cultural identity of Indigenous communities across Canada.
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.
St. Kateri Bursary paves the way for Indigenous students
Providing financial support for Indigenous students in their educational journey is a key part of reconciliation. Bursaries often play an important role in opening the door to continuing studies, fostering self-esteem, and cultivating skills that students can later contribute to their 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.
