IRF Project Collections

Projects Supported by the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund

(New projects added every month)

Pillar One

Healing and Reconciliation for Communities and Families

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.

  • Building Community and Healing Through Cooking

    St. Mary's Wellness and Education is a school facility that was established in the Pleasant Hill Community of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan over 100 years ago. About 90% of its students are of Indigenous ancestry. The community continues to feel the traumatic effects of residential schools and has a strong need for community-building initiatives, inter-generational education, and healing programs.

  • Sacred Fire Ceremony for Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

    On September 30, 2024, the Indigenous Health Education Committee at St. Joseph's Care Group (SJCG) in Thunder Bay, Ontario, will observe Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day is dedicated to creating awareness and encouraging conversations about the Residential School System and its lasting impact on Indigenous People in Canada.

Pillar Two

Culture and Language Revitalization

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.

  • Dagucayami Inishnobge and the Enduring Legacy of Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation

    The Lac Ste. Anne Steel Tipi Monument, named Dagucayami Inishnobge ("our past relatives"), is a project initiated by the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation. The purpose behind the monument is to ensure that the Nation’s rich heritage, spirituality, and enduring connection to the land are retained for future generations.

  • Youth drumming and singing at Mass

    Involving Indigenous youth in Mass music is an important part of passing down traditions and fostering a sense of belonging. Through singing and drumming, youth can connect with both their culture and their Catholic faith.

Pillar Three

Education and Community Building

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.

Pillar Four

Dialogues for Promoting Indigenous Spirituality and Culture

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.