
Indigenous Ministry Office fosters healing through vital programs in Thunder Bay
The Indigenous Ministry Office, under the Diocese of Thunder Bay, plays a vital role in supporting the Indigenous population in the Thunder Bay area and its surrounding communities. The Office manages programs such as monthly Healing Circles for Residential School Survivors and an Elders Council to the Bishop that meets regularly to discuss how to assist community members in the Diocese.

Ribbon dress and skirt making class to revitalize Indigenous craft traditions
In many Indigenous communities, there is growing worry about the loss of the sacred connection achieved through the shared practice of learning traditional crafts. A ribbon dress and shirt making class in Thunder Bay looks to restore cultural values through the art of crafting.

Healing the Child Within program at St. Kateri Church
To help facilitate healing from the trauma and memories associated with the Residential School system, St. Kateri Church, one of the community's four churches, is hosting the "Healing the Child Within" program. The event is a gathering for Indigenous people, providing a platform for prayer and a safe space for Elders and Youth to connect. Participants share stories, engage in prayer for healing, and foster a stronger sense of community

Culturally grounded healing for Indigenous women in Thunder Bay
The Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA) is strengthening their community-responsive programming. These initiatives focus on supporting Indigenous women's wellness and fostering healing through honouring and sharing spiritual teachings and traditional land-based ceremonial practices.

Support for Indigenous Seniors at Wigwamen Terrace
Wigwamen Incorporated, Ontario's oldest urban Indigenous housing provider, is addressing this critical issue through its Family and Seniors Housing portfolio in Toronto. Wigwamen Terrace, one of the organization's longstanding buildings, is home to 127 residents, 95% of whom are First Nation, Métis, or Inuit.

Nurturing well-being with land-based Culture Camps
Designed to address the disconnect between urban Indigenous youth and their cultural roots, the Culture Camps have hosted young campers every year in July and August for over 30 years. Camps are taking place in Clarendon Station on the traditional territory of the Anishinabewaki, Treaty 27, and have become communal gathering spaces for learning, traditional ceremonies, and recreational activities.

Nurturing spirits at the Native Peoples’ Mission
Funding from the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) will support Every Parent Matters, one of the many programs facilitated by the Mission. It is a listening circle with guidance by Elder Dr. Bob Philips that offers a space for people to grieve and help cope with the loss of a child.

Giiwedin Anang: Navigating Indigenous family disputes with cultural compassion
Giiwedin Anang, meaning North Star in Anishinaabemoin, guides Indigenous families through the complex web of child welfare disputes. The essence of Giiwedin Anang lies in recognizing that true healing and reconciliation cannot happen if Indigenous children continue to be disproportionately removed from their families and communities.

Koski Matametan – Coming together on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
In the spirit of fostering understanding and healing, the Atikamekw Nation Council organizes Koski Matametan, a large-scale event that brings together First Nations from across Quebec along with the general public. The event includes commemorative and ceremonial events as well as cultural celebrations. A dedicated psychological support team ensures attendees have a safe space for emotional well-being.



