Resources for Indigenous People & Businesses | CedarVia Group

Support Resources for Indigenous Peoples in BC and Canada

This guide lists support programs and services for Indigenous individuals and Indigenous-owned businesses. It is organized by topic, with British Columbia-specific resources first, followed by Canada-wide services. Each entry includes a brief description and a link. These resources include government programs, Indigenous organizations, and non-profits, covering health, education, housing, business, funding, legal aid, language revitalization, and more.

British Columbia – Health and Wellness

  • First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) – In 2013 FNHA became the first Indigenous-led health authority in Canada, taking over responsibility for planning, managing and delivering health programs for First Nations in B.C. FNHA provides primary care, mental health and wellness programs, public health services, and the First Nations Health Benefits (medical, dental, vision, prescription coverage) for eligible First Nations in B.C. (replacing the federal NIHB program in B.C.).
  • KUU-US Indigenous Crisis Line – A 24/7 province-wide crisis line providing culturally-aware support to Indigenous people in B.C. Toll-free at 1-800-588-8717 (KUU-US17). Call anytime for confidential support during mental health crises, substance use struggles, or any distress. KUU-US offers separate lines for youth and adults and can connect callers with additional resources.
  • Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) – A B.C.-based non-profit that provides essential services and support to residential school survivors and their families, facilitating physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual healing. IRSSS offers crisis counseling, cultural support, referrals, information workshops, and a 24/7 crisis line (“Lamathut”) for those experiencing trauma related to residential schools.
  • Métis Nation BC – Health Programs – The Métis Nation British Columbia offers programs to support Métis individuals’ health and wellness. For example, the Essential Medical Travel Assistance Program (EMTAP) provides funding to eligible low-income Métis citizens who must travel outside their community for medically necessary appointments. MNBC also helps Métis patients navigate the healthcare system (through the Métis Health Experience Program) and advocates for culturally safe care for Métis people.

British Columbia – Education and Training

  • First Nations Education Steering Committee (FNESC) – A First Nations-led organization that works to advance quality education for First Nations students in B.C. FNESC provides support to First Nations schools and communities, develops culturally appropriate curriculum, and administers programs (e.g. language teacher training) to improve outcomes from K-12 to post-secondary. It is a key resource for educators and families seeking information on Indigenous education programs in B.C.
  • Métis Nation BC – Education & Training – MNBC offers support for Métis students and learners in B.C. through initiatives like the Skills Training, Employment & Post-Secondary (STEPS) program. This includes post-secondary funding assistance, scholarships, and employment training opportunities for Métis youth and adults. MNBC’s education programs help Métis people access tuition support, career counselling, and skills development in line with their needs.
  • Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) – A federal program delivered in B.C. by organizations like ACCESS (Aboriginal Community Career Employment Services Society). ISET provides career and employment services, skills training, and job placement support for Indigenous people. For example, ACCESS (serving the Greater Vancouver area) helps Indigenous job-seekers with training funds, resume and interview preparation, and connections to employers. Similar ISET service providers operate throughout B.C. to assist with apprenticeship, trades training, and employment counseling.

British Columbia – Housing and Shelter

  • Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA) – A provincial body that oversees a network of 55 Indigenous housing providers across B.C. AHMA members manage over 95% of all Indigenous off-reserve housing units in the province, providing nearly 10,000 Indigenous individuals and families with affordable homes. AHMA supports its member organizations and advocates for Indigenous housing rights. Individuals can contact AHMA or its member societies (e.g. in Vancouver, Victoria, Prince George, etc.) to find Indigenous-run affordable housing, transitional housing, or rental support in their area.
  • BC Housing Indigenous Housing Search – BC Housing provides an Indigenous Housing List tool to search for housing options for Indigenous Peoples across B.C. This includes off-reserve subsidized housing developments, Indigenous housing societies, and other programs. The Indigenous Housing Fund, a provincial initiative, is creating new affordable rental homes both off-reserve and on-reserve. Indigenous individuals looking for housing can use these resources or contact BC Housing to learn about available units, waitlists, and application processes for Indigenous-focused housing programs.
  • Lu’ma Native Housing Society – An example of an Indigenous non-profit housing provider in B.C. (based in Vancouver). Lu’ma offers affordable housing to Indigenous families and individuals, including supportive housing for those experiencing homelessness. In addition to housing, Lu’ma provides wraparound services such as an Indigenous patient lodge (for those traveling for medical care), youth mentorship, and community programs. Many urban areas in B.C. have similar Indigenous housing societies (e.g. Vancouver Native Housing, M’akola Housing, Kekinow Housing) that offer low-cost housing with culturally appropriate supports.
  • Helping Spirit Lodge Society – An Indigenous-run organization in B.C. that provides shelter and support services for women and children fleeing violence. Based in Vancouver, Helping Spirit Lodge offers a transition house and second-stage housing, along with counseling, advocacy and programs to help Indigenous women rebuild their lives. It is one of several Indigenous women’s safe housing providers in the province. These shelters provide a safe, culturally sensitive environment and connections to healing programs for survivors of violence.

British Columbia – Legal Aid and Justice

  • Legal Aid BC (Legal Services Society) – Provides free or low-cost legal help to eligible low-income individuals in B.C., with specific services for Indigenous clients. Legal Aid BC can appoint lawyers for those who qualify in criminal, family, and child protection cases, and also offers legal information and advice services. The society has Indigenous legal resources such as Aboriginal community legal workers and publications on Aboriginal law. Indigenous people can contact Legal Aid BC to seek representation or advice, and may be connected to specialized programs like First Nations Court (for restorative justice) or mediation services.
  • Native Courtworker and Counselling Association of BC (NCCABC) – Offers culturally sensitive support to Indigenous people involved in the criminal justice system. NCCABC’s courtworkers are present in courthouses around the province to assist Indigenous defendants by explaining charges and court procedures, advocating on their behalf, and helping with release and bail plans. They also connect clients to treatment or social services as needed. In addition, NCCABC provides programs such as addictions counseling, youth advocacy, and community justice workshops. These services help reduce barriers and ensure Indigenous individuals receive fair, compassionate treatment in the justice process.
  • Indigenous Justice Centres (BCFNJC) – A network of legal clinics run by the BC First Nations Justice Council that provide free, culturally appropriate legal services to Indigenous people. There are currently 15 regional Justice Centres across B.C. (and one virtual centre) offering information, advice, support, and representation at the community level. The Justice Centres focus primarily on criminal law and child protection matters (areas identified as high priority by First Nations leadership). Lawyers and advocates at these centres can represent Indigenous clients in court, help with Gladue reports for sentencing, and divert cases to restorative justice programs. They take a holistic approach, also connecting clients with housing, mental health, addictions treatment, and other supports to address root causes of offending. Indigenous people in B.C. can contact a Justice Centre in their region for help with legal issues, instead of or in addition to using the regular legal aid system.

British Columbia – Language and Culture Revitalization

  • First Peoples’ Cultural Council (FPCC) – A Crown-funded Indigenous organization dedicated to revitalizing First Nations languages, arts, culture, and heritage in B.C. FPCC works with First Nations communities to build the vitality of their languages and cultural practices for future generations. The council offers numerous grant programs and resources: funding to communities for language immersion programs, mentor-apprentice learning, language classes and camps; the FirstVoices platform for digital language archiving; arts grants for Indigenous artists and organizations; and support for cultural heritage projects. Communities and individuals can apply for FPCC programs such as language revitalization planning, Indigenous language technology grants, and youth language scholarships. FPCC also provides training, toolkits, and research (like the Status of B.C. First Nations Languages report) to guide and inspire language revival efforts across the province.
  • Métis Nation BC – Culture, Heritage & Language – MNBC offers initiatives to support Métis cultural preservation and the revitalization of Michif and other Métis languages in B.C. Through its Culture, Heritage & Language Department, MNBC provides resources such as community cultural programming, Michif language classes and learning materials, cultural workshops (e.g. jigging, beadwork, Métis history), and supports for regional Métis cultural projects. MNBC also collaborates with partners to document and promote Métis heritage in B.C. (for example, developing educational resources on Métis contributions in B.C.). Métis individuals and chartered communities can contact MNBC for information on upcoming language courses, cultural events, and funding opportunities to celebrate and sustain Métis culture.

Canada-Wide – Health and Wellness

  • Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program – A federal program that provides registered First Nations and recognized Inuit with coverage for a range of medically necessary health benefits not covered by provincial/territorial insurance. NIHB covers prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, dental care, vision care, medical supplies and equipment, mental health counselling, and medical travel expenses for eligible clients. This program is administered by Indigenous Services Canada (except in B.C., where FNHA delivers equivalent services). First Nations and Inuit individuals can access these benefits by presenting their status or N-Number at pharmacies, dental offices, etc., and the provider will bill NIHB directly. NIHB ensures that Indigenous people can get essential health services (like eyeglasses, dentures, medical transportation to specialists, etc.) free of charge.
  • Hope for Wellness Help Line – A nationwide 24/7 crisis counseling service available to all Indigenous people across Canada. It offers immediate mental health support and crisis intervention at any time of day, in English and French (with access to Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut speakers on request). Indigenous individuals can call toll-free 1-855-242-3310 or use the online chat at hopeforwellness.ca to connect with an experienced, culturally competent counselor. The counselors provide non-judgmental listening, help address issues big or small (such as grief, trauma, depression, substance use), and can refer callers to additional local resources if needed. The Hope for Wellness Helpline is free of charge and confidential, ensuring that First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people have somewhere to turn for help whenever they are in distress.
  • Jordan’s Principle – A rule and program ensuring that First Nations children in Canada can access the products, services, and supports they need without delay or denials due to jurisdictional disputes. Under Jordan’s Principle, if any First Nations child (on or off reserve) has a health, social, or educational need that is unmet by existing services, families can apply for funding to cover that need. This could include things like speech therapy, school tutoring, medical equipment, mental health services, respite care, or cultural support. The program is federally funded and has approved millions of services for Indigenous children. To use Jordan’s Principle, families or service providers can call the 24-hour Jordan’s Principle Call Centre at 1-855-572-4453 (1-855-JP CHILD) to make a request. There are also regional coordinators to assist with applications. (Inuit children have a parallel Inuit Child First Initiative, and Métis children may access some provincial supports.) Jordan’s Principle ensures First Nations kids get help first, and governments resolve funding disputes later, so children’s well-being comes first.
  • National IRS Crisis Line – A 24/7 crisis line (toll-free 1-866-925-4419) that provides immediate emotional support to former Indian Residential School students and their families across Canada. Callers are connected with trained crisis counselors who can provide counseling, help manage trauma or flashbacks, and refer individuals to local resources or elder support. This service is funded through the IRS Resolution Health Support Program to assist those impacted by the legacy of residential schools. It is available anywhere in Canada, at no cost. (In addition, the IRS Resolution Health Support Program offers in-person counseling and cultural support through local Indigenous organizations; for details, individuals can contact Indigenous Services Canada or the nearest Indigenous health/social services provider.)

Canada-Wide – Education and Training

  • Indspire – A national Indigenous charity that invests in the education of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people for their long-term benefit. Indspire is best known for its "Building Brighter Futures" program, which provides bursaries, scholarships, and awards to Indigenous students across Canada. Since 1996, Indspire has disbursed over $248 million through 75,000+ bursaries and scholarships, helping Indigenous students pursue college, university, trades training, and graduate studies. Students complete one application to be considered for a range of available awards. Indspire also runs career enrichment and mentorship programs (such as the Rivers to Success mentorship for students) and the annual Indspire Awards that celebrate Indigenous achievement. Indigenous learners can explore Indspire’s website for financial support opportunities and submit applications during the regular award cycles.
  • Post-Secondary Student Support Program (PSSSP) – A federal funding program that provides financial assistance for eligible First Nations students enrolled in post-secondary studies. PSSSP funding is delivered through First Nation band councils or education organizations: students apply to their band or community education office for support each year. If approved, PSSSP can cover costs such as tuition, books, travel, and living allowances for the duration of the studies. The goal is to help First Nations students achieve post-secondary education levels on par with other Canadians. Each First Nation sets its own selection criteria (often based on need and funds available), so not all students may receive funding and partial funding is common. It’s important for students to contact their band office well ahead of school deadlines to inquire about PSSSP application forms and cut-off dates. (Note: Inuit students have a separate Inuit Post-Secondary Education Strategy, and Métis Nation students can access support through Métis Nation post-secondary programs.)
  • Indigenous Bursaries Search Tool – An online database maintained by the Government of Canada that lists over 750 scholarships, bursaries, and awards available to Indigenous students. Users can search by keyword, field of study, or Indigenous affiliation to find financial aid opportunities. The tool includes awards from various sources: federal/provincial programs, private companies, universities, and Indigenous organizations. For example, one can find scholarships specifically for Inuit students in healthcare, or awards for Métis students in Alberta, etc. This resource is very useful for finding lesser-known funding: Indigenous students are encouraged to explore it to supplement other funding (like band funding or Indspire). It is accessible through the Indigenous Services Canada website or directly via Canada.ca by searching “Indigenous bursaries.”
  • Other Scholarship and Training Supports – Indigenous learners and job-seekers across Canada can access additional supports such as: the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) program (funded by Employment and Social Development Canada) which is delivered by regional Indigenous organizations and helps with skills training and employment services (similar to B.C.’s ISET noted above) and apprenticeship grants for Indigenous trades students. Many provinces also have Indigenous student awards (e.g., Ontario’s Indigenous Student Bursary, Saskatchewan’s Métis Training Fund). Indigenous students should inquire with their school’s Indigenous student centre or financial aid office for region-specific programs.

Canada-Wide – Housing and Infrastructure

  • On-Reserve Housing Programs (ISC) – Indigenous Services Canada offers several programs to support housing in First Nations communities. The First Nations On-Reserve Housing Program provides annual funding to First Nations bands for building, renovating, and maintaining housing in their communities. Additionally, ISC in B.C. has a Housing Support Program to help First Nations develop housing plans, leverage financing, and improve housing management capacity. First Nations members seeking to build or renovate a home on reserve can often apply through their band office for assistance or loans backed by Ministerial Loan Guarantees. There is also the First Nations Market Housing Fund – a federally backed fund that helps First Nations citizens obtain bank mortgages for on-reserve home ownership by providing loan guarantees and financial coaching. These programs aim to increase the quality and quantity of adequate housing in First Nations communities. (Note: For Inuit regions, housing is generally handled through territorial programs, and for Métis, through provincial housing initiatives or Métis capital corporations.)
  • CMHC Indigenous Housing Programs – The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) offers various programs and funding streams to support Indigenous housing off-reserve and in the North. This includes programs like the Urban Native Housing Program (which provided subsidized rental housing for Indigenous people in urban centres), Section 95 Non-Profit Housing for on-reserve (subsidies for band-owned social housing units), and home repair and renovation grants for Indigenous households (e.g., through CMHC’s Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program for persons on reserve and the North). In recent years, CMHC has also launched the Indigenous Homes Innovation Initiative, funding creative community-driven housing solutions, and the Rapid Housing Initiative, which has an Indigenous stream to quickly create modular and supportive housing (often off-reserve). Indigenous organizations and communities can work with CMHC to access expertise, loans, or grants for housing projects. Individual Indigenous families can also look into CMHC’s First Nations Individual Loan Program (which facilitates bank financing for on-reserve home construction with band guarantees) or the various homeownership and renovation programs available in their province/territory (some of which CMHC co-funds).