CMA Foundation Announces Over $2 Million to Support Cultural Wellness and Healing for First Nations in British Columbia
The CMA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) in partnership with the First Nations Health Foundation (FNHF), the primary philanthropic partner to the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), is proud to announce more than $2 million dedicated to advancing cultural wellness and healing initiatives for First Nations communities in British Columbia, including Urban and Away-From-Home populations.
This investment marks a significant philanthropic commitment since 2024 when the CMA apologized for its role—and the role of the medical profession—in past and ongoing harms to First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in the health system. This contribution represents a concrete step in moving from apology to action and supporting reconciliation through community-driven healing that honours First Nations knowledge, self-determination, and strength.
“Our work is a long-term commitment grounded in partnership and reciprocity with First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples,” says CMA Foundation President Allison Seymour. “It’s undertaken with an emphasis on humility, learning, and partnership.”
Addressing Community-Identified Priorities
Across British Columbia, First Nations communities continue to emphasize that cultural continuity—including ceremony, land-based healing, language, and guidance from Elders—is foundational to wellness. Cultural wellness initiatives are effective, trusted, and urgently needed approaches to strengthening mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual wellbeing.
The First Nations Health Foundation will administer the grants, working closely with BC Nations and the FNHA to ensure alignment with regional priorities and community-defined needs. A wide-range of initiatives will be supported, including land-based healing programs, Elder and/or youth wellness and belonging initiatives, and cultural renewal projects.
“Wellness begins with culture. The FNHA is encouraged to see the CMA Foundation committing to investments that honour what First Nations communities have always known keeps people well,” says FNHA CEO Monica McAlduff. “When First Nations lead the design of their own healing pathways, outcomes are stronger, more sustainable, and grounded in community.”
Reconciliation Through Partnership
This investment represents a significant shift toward philanthropic partnership models that recognize and uphold First Nations governance, community voices, and sovereignty in defining priorities for health and wellness.
“This funding reflects a meaningful commitment to reconciliation—one that centres listening, relationships, and respect,” says First Nations Health Foundation CEO Nathania Fung. “Cultural wellness is foundational to healing and wholistic health. We are grateful to the CMA Foundation and CMA for taking tangible steps to support First Nations-led healing across British Columbia.”
About the First Nations Health Foundation
The First Nations Health Foundation (FNHF) is the first and only foundation of its kind dedicated to supporting First Nations-led health and wellness in British Columbia. As the primary philanthropic partner to the First Nations Health Authority, the FNHF bridges funding and knowledge gaps to advance equitable and culturally safe health and wellness for First Nations people and communities across BC. To learn more: fnhfoundation.ca
About the CMA Foundation
The CMA Foundation provides impactful charitable giving to registered Canadian charities and qualified donees to improve health equity and further excellence in health care.
To Learn More
Please contact Nathania at [email protected] or download the Press Release HERE.
Picture from L-R:
FNHA CEO – Monica McAlduff
FNHF CEO – Nathania Fung
CMA Strategic Advisor – Dr. Sarah Williams
FNHF Board Vice-Chair – Greg Louie
FNHA Chief Medical Officer – Dr. Nel Wieman
FNHA Deputy CMO – Dr. Kelsey Louie
FNHA OCMO Medical Officer for Mental & Substance Use – Dr. Nolan Hop Wo