Searching for Indigenous Peoples

Web-based, distance learning option for Ministry-funded Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS) program * students may wish to take the web-based course in addition to an on-site course

Designated LBS service providers deliver e-Channel distance learning programs, including specialized services available to Aboriginal, Francophone and deaf, deaf-blind and hard of hearing adults:

Anglophone (English speakers)

• The Learning Hub

Indigenous -- Sioux-Hudson Literacy Council, Good Learning Anywhere (GLA),

Francophone (French speakers)

• Coalition ontarienne de formation des adultes

Deaf and Hard of Hearing

• Deaf Learn Now -- online instruction in American Sign Language

Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) Program -- College Sector Committee,

• Students needing to meet admission requirements for specific apprenticeship and postsecondary programs may wish to complete the Academic & Career Entrance (ACE) Program, available at many colleges and also available online

Online directory to find the address, phone number and accessibility information for all court locations in Ontario. Select a community name to find a list of all court services available in that community.

COVID19 Enhanced safety measures in place and some services modified, call for information

Affordable and supportive housing for women

Permanent affordable housing
Private, self-contained units including junior, one, two and three bedroom unfurnished apartments

• capacity 165

Supportive housing
On-site individual support including connection to mental health, substance use and health services

• capacity 85

Winona's Place, Apartments for Aboriginal Women

• capacity 50, including 10 units for women-led families fleeing violence
• in partnership with Wigwamen, see separate listing

Provides Indigenous-based leadership, learning, and experiences to every youth that participates in their programs

• organizes three main types of activities: leadership training programs, workshops, and gatherings

CREation (ages 15-29)

• a multi-level funding program that supports strengths-based, community-focused, and youth-led projects taking place in communities across Canada
• Grassroot youth groups/collectives, comprised of Indigenous youth, are eligible to apply for funding to support community programs and projects while receiving innovative mentorship, training, and capacity-building opportunities

Indigenous Youth Policy School (ages 18-29)

• provides space for Indigenous youth to engage with peers through interactive online sessions on a local and national level
• a tuition-free program with no academic or professional requirements

Research Hub

• a part of the Centre for Indigenous Policy and Research, provides opportunities for youth-led and community-focused researchers to undertake research projects that address the most pressing questions facing reconciliation in their communities and across Canada

Peer Program (ages 18-29)

• a 4-year program that aims to advance the personal and professional capacity of Indigenous youth
• program is specifically designed for youth across Canada who have limited access to education and employment experience

Culture and Wellness Program

• aims to create spaces for youth to access programming that nurtures cultural connection and the concept of (w)holistic wellness
• provides programming that focuses on traditional knowledge, storytelling, land-based education, earth-working and arts-based workshops

Gatherings

• three days of events that bring together young movers and shakers from across the country to learn, play, and work towards improving relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada
• Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth participate through youth-led workshops, intergenerational events, and local excursions that place a focus on reconciliation, Indigenous history, and cultural revitalization, dispelling stereotypes, health and wellbeing, and decolonization

Cultural programming and advocacy

COVID19 Free support, including text counselling, information, and referrals, available to anyone in any type of crisis through text or Facebook Messenger

Support and information in any type of crisis by trained volunteers crisis responders

• youth 5-25 years, text CONNECT to 686868, or message through Facebook Messenger
• adults 25 years and older, text WELLNESS to 686868, or message through Facebook Messenger
• available in English and French
• does not provide medical advice
• access text or Messenger also available on website

Access to culturally sensitive counselling (dependent on crisis responder availability)

• individuals who identify as Indigenous can ask to be connected with a First Nations, Inuk or Métis crisis responder by texting FIRST NATIONS, INUIT, OR METIS to 686868, or message through Facebook Messenger
• individuals who identify as African, Caribbean, Black or part of the Afro-diaspora can text RISE to 686868, or message through Facebook Messenger

Group wellness programs

Counsellor in the Classroom, kidshelpphone.ca/get-involved/are-you-an-educator-check-out-counsellor-in-the-classroom
Promotes discussion of mental health and wellness, available in-person or online

• educator-led classroom activities
• 45-minute phone or video call between class and KHP counsellor

Brighter Days: An Indigenous Wellness Program, kidshelpphone.ca/get-involved/brighter-days-an-indigenous-wellness-program
Culturally safe and engaging audio and video group sessions on mental health and wellness, including skills development, tools and resources

• pre-session video
• virtual conversation with KHP Indigenous Wellness Specialist
• package includes step-by-step booklet, resource materials and promotional gifts for youth participants

COVID19 -- serving clients by phone as much as possible * agency will continue to prepare Gladue reports and Gladue Letters and provide Court Worker services to the Toronto courts * all walk-in service, group programming, notarization, commissioning of documents and public legal education and outreach activities are currently suspended

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Community Legal Clinic 416-408-4041, fax 416-408-1568 * deals primarily with landlord and tenant issues, Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Plan (ODSP), Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPPD), human rights, police complaints, criminal injuries compensation, poverty law, Indian Act * no criminal or family law * may provide representation * referrals to lawyers in private practice where appropriate * law reform and public legal education activities * funded by Legal Aid Ontario

Aboriginal Court Worker Program -- support to those appearing in court * assistance in finding lawyers and contacting family members * referrals * available at all criminal courts in Toronto

Community Council Program -- criminal diversion program for young and adult Aboriginal offenders charged with a wide variety of offences * substitutes court appearance with an appearance before community members, with a disposition focusing on culture, tradition and healing

Gladue (Aboriginal Persons) Courts -- support available at Old City Hall, College Park and 1000 Finch Ave W courts

Gladue Writer/Caseworker -- call for information

Giiwedin Anang Council -- Aboriginal alternative dispute resolution for families involved in the child welfare system * family counselling delivered by community Elders and members focus on traditional teachings and Talking Circles

Provides grants to First Nations and Inuit governments and organizations that support initiatives to help young people acquire essential skills to help gain employment, function well in the workplace, and learn about various career options

Provides information on services on reserves such as education, housing, community infrastructure and social support

• administers the Indian Act
• provides registration services and information on Treaty and Status rights
• Certificates of Indian Status (Status Cards)

Zhaawnong Gamik on Church St -- 60 unit building on Church St, single room occupancy

Jones Ave site -- 17 unit building, one and two bedroom units for couples and small single-parent families, one barrier free unit

Dundas St East site -- 32 unit building, bachelor, one and two bedroom units, some barrier free units

Peel (Brampton) site -- 8 unit building in, bachelor, one and two bedroom units

Norwood Rd site -- 16 unit building, one and two bedroom units

Oshawa site -- 16 unit building in, one and two bedroom units, one barrier free unit

International Service -- retired, semi-retired or professionally active Canadians with technical or managerial experience

• provide volunteer consultative services overseas
• airfare, medical insurance and small allowance provided
• average assignment is 2-8 weeks

National Service, Aboriginal programs -- as above, in Canada, with focus on economic and community development, governance, financial management, business plans and tourism, average assignment is 2-14 days

Program partnered with Cancer Care Ontario designed to enhance knowledge, build capacity and empower Indigenous communities with the skills and tools needed to address tobacco cessation, protection and prevention

Family violence treatment and prevention

• child sexual abuse
• individual and family counselling
• programs for women in abusive relationships
• member agency of Support Services Network for Male Survivors in Ontario
• children's mental health program
• recruitment, education and support for foster and adoptive parents
• addiction and mental health case management
• early intervention/care planning
• aftercare

Partner Assault Response (PAR)

• 12 week group education and counselling program on domestic violence and non-abusive ways of resolving conflict
• victims/partners of the offender provided with support including safety planning, referrals to community resources, and information on offender's progress

Prevention and Support Programs

• family support and development
• parenting circles
• community kitchen
• clothing bank

Youth Programs

• drop-in for youth 16-24 years
• counselling and support
• transitional housing
• substance abuse prevention
• HIV prevention
• outreach
• social, recreation and cultural activities

Educational Programs -- Aboriginal EarlyON Child and Family Centre

• local lead agency for EarlyON Child and Family Centre
• education and support for families with children birth-6 years
• summer day camp and residential camp
• GED program at Native Learning Centre (83 Alexander Street, tel. 416-393-0358) and Scarborough office -- for youth 18-20 years

see branch listings for additional information

Mobility for Good -- free phones and subsidized plans to indigenous women at risk or surviving violence, in partnership with Telus

Prevents and investigates offences against persons and property

• apprehends offenders
• visit crime prevention resource information on website
• bicycle registration
• visit tps.ca/report for Vulnerable Person Registry or to file property, parking, traffic or supplemental reports online

Project Guide, YourChoice.to -- information on reporting sexual assault, including a searchable resource map, guide available in several languages

Collision Reporting Centres -- 113 Toryork Dr, North York, 416-808-3960, 39 Howden Rd, Scarborough, 416-808-4960

Parking Enforcement 416-808-6600 -- to report unauthorized vehicles in spaces reserved for persons with disabilities

• information on parking enforcement, private parking issues, impounded vehicles
• pay or dispute parking ticket with City of Toronto at www.toronto.ca/services-payments/tickets-fines-penalties/pay/pay-your-parking-violation

Criminal Background Checks (Clearance Letters/Vulnerable Sector Screening) -- online applications and additional information at torontopolice.on.ca/background-checks

Community Partnerships and Engagement Unit 416-808-0100, tps.on.ca/community -- programs and services for community mobilization, crime prevention and reduction

• Aboriginal Peacekeeping
• Elder Abuse
• French Services
• Graffiti Management Program
• Mental Health
• Volunteer program
• services provided by other agencies -- Victim Services Program of Toronto, Toronto Crime Stoppers (see separate entries)

Corporate Communications 416-808-7100 -- news releases, public education and media relations

Toronto Police Service Telephone Directory -- www.torontopolice.on.ca/directory

A multi-disciplinary team of dieticians, diabetes nurse educators, social workers and a chiropodist provides individual, family, and caregiver support for diabetes * the program integrates traditional and western approaches to provide health education and help prevent complications of diabetes * in addition to providing education and support, services include: oral medication, disease management, insulin monitoring and management, nutritional counselling, foot care, and lifestyle management

A multi-disciplinary team, which includes medical support, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, physicians, a chiropodist, counsellor, physiotherapists and health promoter, provides holistic healthcare programs and services

Programs and services include:

• health promotion
• disease management and prevention
• well baby and child health assessments
• immunizations
• infant and child developmental assessments
• women's and men's health services
• periodic health examinations, routine screening, diagnostic and testing procedures
• prenatal and postnatal/infant primary health care
• health counselling
• individual, family, and couples counselling

Anishnawbe Health Toronto - Aboriginal Healthy Babies Healthy Children - This Program is designed to help children and families from the pre-natal stage to six years of age. The goal of the Program is to ensure equitable access to resources, support, and knowledge for Métis families so that their children have the best possible opportunity to thrive

Diabetes Program - A multi-disciplinary team of dieticians, diabetes nurse educators, social workers and a chiropodist provides individual, family, and caregiver support for diabetes * the program integrates traditional and western approaches to provide health education and help prevent complications of diabetes * in addition to providing education and support, services include: oral medication, disease management, insulin monitoring and management, nutritional counselling, foot care, and lifestyle management

Gerrard Street Site - Crisis management program and specialized mental health services * walk-in counselling * youth outreach program * physiotherapist * community health worker training program * two spirit trans peer support and counselling * housing support program * traditional program

Services and Programs:

• Charles Street Site

Provides family members of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People access to confidential, culturally responsive, trauma-informed and victim-centered assistance

• Supports families by facilitating connections with culturally appropriate referrals and supports
• Facilitates the gathering of case-specific information about police investigations, coroner's reports/reviews, court proceedings or other government processes and provides information to family
• Family Information Liaison Unit (FILU) staff members are of Indigenous ancestry, knowledgeable, culturally competent and responsive to the needs of the family members they serve

Note: If you don't live near an FILU location, call the Ontario Family Information Liaison Unit toll-free to arrange for FILU staff to travel to your location

Offices open by appointment only, no walk-in, services through online initiatives, contact via email or visit website

Comprehensive employment and job search services

• assessment of skills, interests and experience
• job search strategies, including resume preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment and training opportunities
• on-the-job training, work experience
• help in maintaining employment
• information and referral to other employment and community services

Second Career Program -- skills training and financial support for laid-off workers

• Services for employers -- help in identifying human resource skills requirements matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
• upport for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention

Canada-Ontario Job Grant

• financial support for individual employers to purchase training for their employees
• available to small, medium and large businesses planning to deliver short-term training for existing or new employees

Works Employment Essentials Program -- 6 weeks program

Crisis management program and specialized mental health services * walk-in counselling * youth outreach program * physiotherapist * community health worker training program * two spirit trans peer support and counselling * housing support program * traditional program

Services and Programs:

• Mental Health Services
• Walk-In Counselling

Support, referrals, advocacy

• primary care
• family support
• HIV/AIDS education and prevention including distribution of male and female condoms, lubricant and Aboriginal resource material
• needle exchange and harm reduction materials
• same sex domestic violence information and referral
• care teams and caregiver training
• counselling for all ages
• social events
• free Internet access
• volunteer opportunities
• cultural programming

Part of the Indigenous led Crisis Response Pilot -- responds to mental health related crisis and wellness checks for individuals, in partnership with ENAGB and PQWCHC

Learn about Indigenous-designed and delivered programs and services to improve Indigenous healing, health and wellness and reduce violence against Indigenous women and children

Offer a range of supports and services for the educational success of all Métis across Ontario beginning in early childhood, continuing through elementary school, middle school, and high school through to post-secondary education and into adulthood

Métis Training Programs - Provide a comprehensive suite of employment programs and services that include career counselling, employment readiness training, wage subsidies, apprenticeship support, mobility assistance, self-employment, youth initiatives and services for clients with disabilities

Facilitates and coordinates programs, services, and activities to address the holistic needs of Métis people in Ontario at the provincial, regional, and local levels

Community Support Service Program - Long term care program for persons who are chronically ill * services, information and support to help persons remain in their homes for as long as possible * caregiver support and relief * medical transportation * friendly visiting * security calls/reassurance * home maintenance

Métis Family Wellbeing Program - Provide a variety of family specific programming to help address the needs of Métis families who are working to heal from violence, have children who are in the care of family services, or have youth who are involved in the justice system

Métis Healthy Babies, Healthy Children - The program designed to help children and families from the pre-natal stage to six years of age * offers preparation for parenting and pre-natal and post-natal care * assist all Indigenous families in providing an environment for the healthy development of children through home visits, service coordination, and referrals

Deliver various programs and services for Metis people * education & training, healing & wellness, intergovernmental relations, lands, resources & consultations

Education and Training - Offer a range of supports and services for the educational success of all Métis across Ontario beginning in early childhood, continuing through elementary school, middle school, and high school through to post-secondary education and into adulthood

Healing and Wellness - Facilitates and coordinates programs, services, and activities to address the holistic needs of Métis people in Ontario at the provincial, regional, and local levels