Expanded Trauma-Informed Health and Cultural Support Program
Access cultural and emotional supports for all Indigenous people
Content warning!
This page discusses topics that may be distressing and awaken traumatic experiences.
The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line provides 24-hour crisis support to former Indian Residential School students and their families toll-free at 1-866-925-4419.
First Nations, Inuit and Métis seeking immediate emotional support can contact the Hope for Wellness Helpline toll-free at 1-855-242-3310, or by online chat at hopeforwellness.ca.
On this page
About the program
The Expanded Trauma-Informed Health and Cultural Support Program was created in 2021 in direct response to announcements of unmarked burials on grounds related to former Indian Residential Schools, and in recognition of the intergenerational impacts and legacy of the Indian Residential School System. The program is intended to support access to community-based trauma-informed cultural and emotional supports for all Indigenous people.
Program eligibility
All Indigenous people have access to community-based trauma-informed mental wellness supports, regardless of:
- Status
- Where they live in Canada
- Their experience, direct or indirect, with Indian Residential Schools
This includes access to cultural and emotional support services for Indigenous people who may not be sufficiently served through the existing network of health support services.
Even if you are not eligible for this program, you may be eligible for other support service programs under the Trauma-Informed Health and Cultural Support Program.
Services available
Cultural supports
Elders, Knowledge Holders, and Traditional Healers provide cultural supports through local Indigenous organizations to assist clients on their healing journeys. Specific services are determined by the needs of the individuals and may include:
- Dialogue
- Ceremonies
- Prayer
- Elder services
- Traditional healing
Emotional support
Community-based Indigenous health workers hired by Indigenous organizations provide trauma-informed, culturally grounded support to people affected by unresolved trauma. They provide emotional support and comfort by listening, talking, and providing referrals to other services.
Accessing services
Please contact the Indigenous Services Canada regional office in your province or territory to access services through the Federal Indian Day Schools Health and Cultural Program.
If you are in British Columbia, contact the First Nations Health Authority.
Other support service programs
Other trauma-informed health support services are available. You may be eligible for support services under the following programs:
- Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program
- Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Health and Cultural Support Program
- Federal Indian Day Schools Health and Cultural Support Program
- First Nations Child and Family Services, and Jordan's Principle Settlement Trauma-Informed Health and Cultural Support Services