Funds from Alberta’s government have gone to projects that will help Indigenous people lead different lives by supporting social services, creating jobs and helping Indigenous youth maintain cultural connections.

“Indigenous-led organizations provide hope and healing to so many Indigenous people in towns and cities. They are places of connection and community, and the grants to the five organizations will fund programs that make a difference.”

Rick Wilson, Minister of Indigenous Relations

“Through our Assini Project, Calgary’s urban Indigenous voices become the foundation for growth and success as we move forward in society. With this support from the Government of Alberta, our urban Indigenous community development occurs with authentic design and relevance for this group whose voice has often been missed in the past.” 

Mark Laycock, chief executive officer, Métis Calgary Family Services

Community Futures Treaty Seven (CFT7) will use their funds to develop the Indigenous Employment website and a social media platform to promote their career centres and clients.

“This Community Futures Treaty Seven project will help build the capacity of employers to leverage diversity and improve workforce sustainability while generating employment outcomes for Indigenous job seekers with multiple barriers to employment.”

Jonathon Red Gun, disability employment coordinator, Community Futures Treaty Seven

The Hinton Native Friendship Centre received a grant for therapy services to address trauma.

“The Mamowichihitowin program gives survivors and family members of residential schools a way to access culturally relevant therapeutic services that can save lives and prevent further impacts from residential schools. We will use the funds to help clients attend ceremonial healing and access therapists who can provide culturally relevant services, helping families live violence-free lifestyles.”

Yvonne Oshanyk, executive director, Hinton Friendship Centre Association

Funds will also support two youth initiatives: the Urban Rez Cultural Society’s Knowledge Keepers Youth Cultural Gathering and Ignite Event Coordination’s two-day event to pass traditional knowledge from family, Elders and knowledge keepers to Indigenous youth.  

“This Knowledge Keepers Cultural Gathering is intended to provide hope, support, guidance, knowledge and healing to participants in relation to the challenges and problems facing Indigenous Peoples.”

Gordon Gladue, chairman, Urban Rez Cultural Society

Quick facts

  • A total of $400,000 will go to five organizations in urban Indigenous centres.
  • Funding for all five projects came from Budget 2021-22.

Alberta’s government remains committed to reconciliation. Indigenous-led solutions that affect meaningful change will lead to a better future for all.