Expanded Trauma-Informed Health and Cultural Support Program
Cultural and emotional support services for any Indigenous person in Canada affected by the lasting impacts of colonial trauma
Warning!
This website deals with topics that may cause trauma.
This page discusses topics that may be distressing and awaken memories of past traumatic experiences and abuse.
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.
Individuals impacted by the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls are encouraged to contact the MMIWG Crisis Line toll-free at 1-844-413-6649.
First Nations, Inuit and Métis seeking immediate emotional support can contact the Hope for Wellness Help Line toll-free at 1-855-242-3310, or by online chat.
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
Any Indigenous person who has been affected by the lasting impacts of colonial trauma have access to community-based trauma-informed mental wellness supports, regardless of status or place of residence within Canada.
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
Cultural support providers are Elders, Knowledge Holders, and Traditional Healers who are recognized and respected by their communities. Cultural support providers safely explore and address issues related to intergenerational and childhood trauma. The type of support they offer depends on the needs of each individual and may include, but is not limited to:
- traditional healing
- ceremonies
- teachings and dialogue
- Elder services
- prayers
- other traditional practices
Cultural support providers are provided by local Indigenous organizations.
Emotional support
Emotional support workers are trained and experience community-based workers/or peer supports. Emotional support workers create a safe, non-judgmental space wherein clients can express their feelings. The type of support they offer depends on the needs of each individual and may include, but is not limited to:
- dialogue
- awareness and information
- system navigation and referrals
- peer-support
- providing tools and resources to help with emotional reactions/triggers
Emotional support workers are provided by local Indigenous organizations.
Accessing services
Please contact the ISC regional office or designated health authority in your province or territory to access services through the Expanded Trauma-Informed Health and Cultural Support 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,Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People 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 Agreement Support Services
- Federal Indian Hospitals Settlement Agreement Support Services