Indigenous Resources

The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) collaborates with Ontario Health's Indigenous Cancer Care Unit to enhance cancer care for Métis individuals. This partnership aims to reduce disparities in cancer services by implementing regional plans and building capacity through Indigenous Navigators and Regional Cancer Leads. Key initiatives include the "First Nations, Inuit, Métis and Urban Indigenous Cancer Strategy (2019-2024)" and community-based research projects like the Cancer Patient Journey Project and the Cancer Screening Research Study. These efforts focus on understanding cancer risk factors, improving screening participation, and addressing barriers such as limited access to culturally competent healthcare services.

Cancer Care Ontario (CCO) provides a comprehensive collection of resources to support First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and urban Indigenous communities in Ontario. These materials include toolkits, educational publications, service information, and culturally appropriate cancer care resources. Notable offerings are the Indigenous Cancer Strategy, Indigenous Relationship and Cultural Awareness Courses, Cancer 101 Toolkits, and Palliative Care Toolkits. These resources aim to enhance cancer care and control within Indigenous populations.

Anishnawbe Health Toronto's Diabetes Prevention Program offers culturally-based services to Indigenous individuals across all ages. The multi-disciplinary team, including Dietitians, a Social Worker, and an Outreach Worker, provides community workshops, community kitchens, health assessments, and referrals to primary healthcare practitioners. For more information or to participate, contact reception at 416-360-0486.

Anishnawbe Health Toronto's (AHT) Diabetes Education Program (DEP) offers culturally-based support by integrating Traditional and Western approaches to diabetes care. A multi-disciplinary team—including Dietitians, a Diabetes Nurse Educator, Social Workers, and a Chiropodist—provides services such as oral medication support, disease management, insulin monitoring, nutritional counselling, foot care, and lifestyle management. The program aims to educate and assist individuals, families, and caregivers in preventing and managing diabetes-related complications.

Curve Lake First Nation's Health & Family Services Department offers comprehensive programs to support community well-being. The Health Centre provides primary care through a medical clinic staffed by a doctor, nurse practitioner, and registered nurse. Additional services include health promotion, foot care, medical transportation assistance, child protection and prevention services, and Band Representative services to advocate for children's welfare in legal proceedings.

The Indigenous Counselling for Women Support Program, offered by Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle (NASC), provides culturally relevant counseling and healing services to Indigenous women and their families. The program aims to support women in all life stages, addressing various challenges and promoting overall well-being. niijki.com Key Features: Culturally Relevant Services: The program integrates traditional Indigenous healing practices with contemporary therapeutic approaches, ensuring services are respectful and effective for Indigenous women. Comprehensive Support: Services include individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, and referrals to other community resources as needed. Holistic Approach: The program addresses the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of these elements in healing. Eligibility: Membership at NASC is open to individuals who: Reside in the geographical areas of service. Are 18 years of age or older. Self-identify as Indigenous women. Contact Information: For more details or to access the Indigenous Counselling for Women Support Program, please contact: Email: icwsp2@niijki.com Phone: (705) 734-1822 Website: Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle These resources are part of NASC's commitment to providing culturally grounded support to Indigenous women and their families.

Curve Lake First Nation's Health & Family Services offers a comprehensive Mental Health Outreach program to support community members facing mental health and addiction challenges. The program provides: Service Coordination: Assistance in connecting individuals with appropriate mental health and addiction services. Case Management: Ongoing support to navigate and manage treatment plans effectively. Community Treatment Orders: Coordination of legal orders for individuals requiring mandated treatment. The Mental Health Outreach Worker, Courtney Taylor, is available to assist community members. You can contact Courtney at 705-657-2557 ext. 405 or via email at CourtneyT@curvelake.ca.

Anishnawbe Health Toronto (AHT) offers comprehensive substance abuse support through two primary programs: Aboriginal Mental Health & Addictions Program (AMHA): Day Treatment: Clients engage in daily group sessions and one-on-one counseling for up to one year. Culturally Integrated Care: The program emphasizes the importance of culture in healing, incorporating traditional practices alongside conventional therapeutic methods. Rapid Access Addictions Medicine Program (RAAM): Immediate Support: Provides prompt access to addiction medicine services, including assessments and treatment options. Multidisciplinary Team: Services are delivered by a team comprising addiction counselors, social and outreach workers, nurses, physicians, group facilitators, and traditional healers. These programs are designed to support individuals in overcoming substance use challenges within a culturally sensitive framework.

Anishnawbe Health Toronto (AHT) offers psychiatric and psychological services to support individuals with various mental health concerns. Their multidisciplinary team provides: Psychiatric Services: Assessment, diagnosis, and counselling for a wide range of mental health issues. Psychological Services: Psychological, intellectual, and vocational assessments, along with psychotherapy for clients experiencing emotional and/or behavioural disorders. Currently, AHT's psychiatry services are at capacity and not accepting new referrals. For immediate support, individuals are advised to contact the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). For more information or to access other services, please visit AHT's website.

The Substance Use Treatment Centres for First Nations and Inuit, as detailed by Indigenous Services Canada, offer a range of residential treatment programs tailored to the needs of Indigenous communities. These centres provide culturally relevant services to support individuals in overcoming substance use challenges. Key Features: Culturally Relevant Programs: Each centre integrates traditional healing practices with contemporary therapeutic approaches, ensuring services are respectful and effective for Indigenous clients. Comprehensive Services: Programs typically include individual and group counselling, cultural activities, life skills training, and aftercare support to promote long-term recovery. Accessibility: Located across various regions, these centres aim to be accessible to First Nations and Inuit individuals seeking assistance. How to Access Services: Contact Local Treatment Centres: Individuals seeking treatment can reach out directly to the centres listed on the Indigenous Services Canada website for information on program availability, eligibility, and application processes. Regional Offices: For guidance and referrals, contacting the local regional office can provide additional support and information on accessing services. For a comprehensive list of treatment centres and detailed information, please refer to the Indigenous Services Canada website. These resources are part of Canada's commitment to supporting the health and well-being of First Nations and Inuit communities through culturally appropriate substance use treatment services. 

Anishnawbe Health Toronto (AHT) offers comprehensive mental health services rooted in Indigenous culture and traditions. Their multidisciplinary approach includes: Traditional Healing & Ceremonies Psychiatry Psychology Mental Health Counselling Traditional Counselling Traditional Family Counselling Couple’s Counselling Supportive & Advocacy Work Services are available in-person, virtually, or over the phone, accommodating individual preferences. AHT employs a long-term case management model that addresses the spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical needs of each person. AHT.CA To book an appointment, new clients can self-refer to the program for intake and appointment scheduling, available Monday to Friday. Existing clients should call reception at (416-360-0486) to make an appointment. 

The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) provides Mental Health and Addictions Services, including service navigation, assessments, individual counselling, and family therapy. Support is available in person, by phone, or via video call in English and French. Additional programs focus on technology use, gambling, tobacco cessation, and health education. For assistance, contact 1-800-263-4889 Ext. 7 or MHA@metisnation.org. In crisis, call 9-8-8 or the Hope for Wellness Helpline at 1-855-242-3310.

Anishnawbe Health Toronto (AHT) offers the Oshkii Okitchiidak (Youth) Program , supporting Indigenous youth aged 14 to 24. The program provides counseling, school advocacy, and cultural activities tailored to participants' interests.  Services Include: Counseling Support: Personalized guidance addressing various challenges. School Advocacy: Assistance navigating educational systems. Cultural Activities: Youth-driven groups and events celebrating Indigenous heritage. Booking an Appointment: New Clients: Self-referrals are accepted. Existing Clients: Contact reception at (416) 360-0486.

Anishnawbe Health Toronto (AHT) offers the Maternal Infant Program , known as Kitchiniigaan Noongom ("The Future is Today"), providing pre- and post-natal support to women and their families until their child reaches 12 months of age. This culturally-based program celebrates the sacredness of life and honors the spirit of women. Services Include: Education and Nutritional Counseling: Guidance on health and nutrition during and after pregnancy. Traditional Circles: Pre-natal, teaching, and parenting circles rooted in Indigenous traditions. Ceremonies: Welcoming and naming ceremonies to honor new life. Lactation Support: Assistance with breastfeeding practices. Infant Development Groups: Activities promoting early childhood development.  Booking an Appointment: New Clients: Self-referrals are accepted. Existing Clients: Contact reception at (416) 360-0486.

Anishnawbe Health Toronto (AHT) offers Youth Outreach Worker (YOW) Services to support Indigenous youth in navigating various challenges. The program employs evidence-informed outreach models based on the Stages of Change theory, assessing and supporting an individual's readiness for change. Services include outreach, short-term support, referrals, and consultations, focusing on connecting youth to AHT services and external programs. This involves accompanying clients to ensure successful engagement with programs, workers, and other service providers.  Booking an Appointment: New Clients: Self-referrals are accepted. Existing Clients: Contact reception at (416) 360-0486.

Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child & Family Services (DBCFS) is a multi-service Indigenous Child Well-Being Agency dedicated to providing a stable foundation for children, youth, and families through culturally-based and family-focused wraparound services. Key Services Offered: Volunteer Services: Opportunities for community members to engage and support local initiatives. Child & Youth Mental Health & Addictions: Support services for children, youth, and their families experiencing mental health and addiction challenges. Youth Justice: Assistance for First Nation, Inuit, and Métis youth aged 12–17 who are in conflict with the law. Youth in Transition: Support for youth transitioning from the child welfare system into adulthood. Alternative Care: Provision of temporary homes for children and youth in need, emphasizing community involvement and support. Family Service: Assistance for children and families facing issues such as abuse, neglect, substance abuse, and suicide risk. Cultural Services: Culturally intelligent services designed to enhance the strengths of Indigenous individuals and families. binnoojiiyag.ca For more information or to access these services, please contact: Phone: 1-844-523-2237 (Main) or 1-705-295-7135 (Office) Email: info@binnoojiiyag.ca These resources are part of the agency's commitment to supporting the well-being of Indigenous children, youth, and families.

The Community Wellbeing Branch of the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) offers culturally rooted programs to support the health and wellness of Métis individuals and families across Ontario. These services are designed to address holistic needs and are available both in-person and virtually. Highlighted Services: Community Action Program for Children: Supports the healthy development of Métis children through various activities and resources. Canada Pre-Natal Nutrition Program: Offers nutritional guidance and support to expectant Métis mothers. Métis Healthy Babies Healthy Children Program: Provides resources and support to ensure the well-being of Métis infants and their families. Anti-Human Trafficking Program: Addresses and combats human trafficking within Métis communities. Victim Services: Delivers culturally relevant support to Métis women and children affected by violence. For more information or to access these services, contact One MNO at 1-800-263-4889 Ext. 7.

The Indigenous Youth in Transition Support Program , offered by Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle (NASC), assists Indigenous youth transitioning out of the child welfare system into adulthood. The program provides guidance and resources to help youth navigate this critical period successfully.  Key Features: Personalized Support: Tailored assistance to address individual needs during the transition. Resource Navigation: Guidance in accessing community services and opportunities. Skill Development: Focus on building life skills essential for independent living. For more information or to access the program, please contact NASC directly.

The Indigenous Healthy Babies Healthy Children Support Program, offered by Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle (NASC), provides culturally relevant support to Indigenous families during pregnancy and early childhood. The program focuses on promoting healthy development and well-being for both mothers and children. Key Features: Culturally Relevant Support: The program integrates traditional Indigenous practices with contemporary health approaches, ensuring services are respectful and effective for Indigenous families. Comprehensive Services: Services include prenatal and postnatal support, parenting education, health assessments, and referrals to other community resources as needed. Holistic Approach: The program addresses the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of these elements in health. Eligibility: Membership at NASC is open to individuals who: Reside in the geographical areas of service. Are 18 years of age or older. Self-identify as Indigenous women. For more information or to access the Indigenous Healthy Babies Healthy Children Support Program, please contact: Email: icwsp2@niijki.com Phone: (705) 734-1822 These resources are part of NASC's commitment to providing culturally grounded support to Indigenous women and their families.

The Métis Family Wellbeing (MFWB) Program , offered by the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO), aims to prevent and disrupt cycles of violence within Métis families. It provides supportive, preventive, and educational activities for children and youth aged 0–18 and their families. MFWB Coordinators collaborate with families to develop personalized wellness plans, facilitate access to peer counselling, offer advocacy and referral services, and connect clients with traditional knowledge and practices. Services are available both individually and in group settings, focusing on diverting youth from high-risk behaviours. The program operates in various Métis communities across Ontario. For more information or to access services, contact Jason Jamieson at jasonj@metisnation.org or call 705-474-2767 Ext. 308.

Anishnawbe Health Toronto (AHT) offers Child and Family Therapy Services for families with children aged 5 to 14. The program provides consultations and ongoing therapy sessions for both children and their parents. Appointments are available during the day and evening, with no current waitlist. Booking an Appointment: New Clients: Self-referrals are accepted. Existing Clients: Contact reception at (416) 360-0486. 

The Indigenous Child Witness to Violence Support Program by Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle helps Indigenous children and youth heal from exposure to violence. The program offers counseling, advocacy, safety planning, and referrals, incorporating Indigenous cultural practices. For more information, call (705) 734-1822.

Curve Lake First Nation's Health & Family Services Department offers comprehensive programs to support community well-being. The Health Centre provides primary care through a medical clinic staffed by a doctor, nurse practitioner, and registered nurse. Additional services include health promotion, foot care, medical transportation assistance, child protection and prevention services, and Band Representative services to advocate for children's welfare in legal proceedings.

The Aging at Home Program , offered by the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO), supports Métis citizens aged 55 and older in living safely and independently within their own homes. Funded by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, the program provides a range of in-home supports and contracted services. Services Include: In-Home Cleaning: Assistance with light housekeeping tasks. Transportation for Errands: Support for activities such as medical appointments, banking, and grocery shopping. Contracted Services: Lawn care and snow removal provided by hired professionals. Availability: The program operates in the following Métis communities across Ontario: Atikokan Dryden Gravenhurst Blind River Timmins Haileybury Chapleau Cochrane Midland Mattawa Renfrew Peterborough Kenora London Eligibility: Métis individuals aged 55 and older who require support to remain living in their own homes. Eligibility criteria include a financial review and a medical referral. Contact Information: To access the program's services or for more information, please contact: Email: PattiC@metisnation.org Phone: (705) 365-7761

2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations is an organization dedicated to supporting 2-Spirit people in Ontario. Their mission focuses on improving the health and well-being of individuals affected by HIV, hepatitis C, and the impacts of colonial violence. The organization provides advocacy, services, and educational resources, aiming to create a strong, healthy, and self-determined 2-Spirit community.

Who it's for: Residential school survivors and their families. Services: Provides emotional and crisis support 24/7. Phone: 1-866-925-4419

Provides immediate mental health counselling and crisis intervention to all Indigenous people across Canada. Available 24/7 by phone and online chat. Phone: 1-855-242-3310 Online Chat: hopeforwellness.ca

The One MNO Navigators program is a single point of access for Métis citizens seeking assistance. Navigators help individuals connect to MNO services, offering personalized guidance and saving time in accessing resources. Available during business hours, they respond within two business days if contact is missed. For more information or to find your local Coordinator, contact 1-800-263-4889 Ext. 7 or email ContactUs@metisnation.org .