The Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health has announced a landmark $10 million donation agreement with the Manitoba Government, a pivotal step in supporting families and communities impacted by the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit Peoples (MMIWG2S+). This significant funding will contribute directly to Manitoba’s newly established MMIWG2S+ Healing and Empowerment Fund, held in trust by the Winnipeg Foundation. This endowment fund is designed to provide sustainable, long-term support for programs that offer accessible healing services and resources to affected families.
A Historic Commitment to Indigenous Communities
This donation marks the single largest contribution ever made by the Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health. It underscores the organization’s dedication to promoting equity in women’s health, addressing systemic inequalities, and ensuring the well-being of women across Canada. Jeff Leger, President of Shoppers Drug Mart and Chair of the Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health, emphasized the importance of corporate responsibility in fostering meaningful change.
“Shoppers As the largest single donation from Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health, this agreement is a demonstration of our ongoing commitment to furthering equity in women’s health and ensuring the well-being of women across Canada,” stated Leger. “Thanks to the leadership of the Government of Manitoba and the ongoing work of community partners, we are proud to play a role in advancing a more sustained approach to healing and empowerment for Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit peoples across the province.”
Addressing Systemic Barriers to Healing and Support
The $10 million donation will be disbursed over a five-year period, with an initial investment of $6 million in 2025. This funding contributes to the Manitoba Government’s broader $15 million endowment fund, which was first introduced in May 2024 as part of Mino’Ayaawag Ikwewag (“All Women Doing Well”), Shoppers Manitoba’s provincial strategy to enhance the safety, protection, and empowerment of Indigenous women, girls, Two-Spirit, and gender-diverse individuals. The initiative responds to the 231 Calls to Justice issued by the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, specifically addressing the urgent need for continuous and accessible healing programs for MMIWG2S+ families.
The Healing and Empowerment Fund aims to:
- Provide trauma-informed and culturally responsive support services tailored to the needs of affected families and communities.
- Develop long-term resources that offer stability and sustainability for ongoing healing initiatives.
- Ensure that the children and families of MMIWG2S+ individuals have continued access to essential support programs.
A Shared Vision for Reconciliation and Justice
The commitment by the Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health represents a significant private-sector contribution to reconciliation efforts in Canada. Nahanni Fontaine, Manitoba’s Minister responsible for women and gender equity, highlighted the vital role that corporations can play in addressing social injustices and systemic discrimination against Indigenous peoples.
“Every one of us has a role to play in building a better future for Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirit peoples,” Fontaine stated. “This significant commitment extended by Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health is an example of how corporations and their charitable efforts can contribute to ending violence, racism and discrimination against Indigenous women, girls, Two-Spirit, and gender-diverse people, and action reconciliation with real, tangible support.”
The Role of The Winnipeg Foundation
As the custodian of the MMIWG2S+ Healing and Empowerment Fund, The Winnipeg Foundation will be responsible for overseeing the disbursement of funds to eligible programs and initiatives. The foundation has a longstanding reputation for managing charitable endowments that serve the community’s best interests, ensuring that contributions have a lasting impact.
The revenue generated by the fund will be directed toward programs that:
- Offer grief counseling and trauma recovery services for families affected by the loss of loved ones.
- Support community-led initiatives focused on cultural healing practices, such as traditional ceremonies and land-based therapy.
- Provide educational and economic opportunities for the children of MMIWG2S+ individuals.
- Develop public awareness campaigns that shed light on the systemic issues contributing to violence against Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit peoples.
Announcing the Initiative on a Day of Remembrance
The official announcement of the donation took place at the Manitoba Legislative Building on the day of the Women’s Memorial March, a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit peoples across Canada and the United States. The event was attended by key government representatives, community leaders, and family members directly impacted by the crisis.
During the announcement, Jeff Leger, alongside Minister Nahanni Fontaine, reiterated the importance of ongoing collaboration between governments, corporations, and community organizations to create lasting change. The presence of MMIWG2S+ family members at the event underscored the deep emotional and cultural significance of this initiative.
Moving Forward: Ensuring Accountability and Effectiveness
While the establishment of the MMIWG2S+ Healing and Empowerment Fund is a crucial step forward, it is equally important to ensure that the funding is used effectively and reaches those who need it most. Community leaders have emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in how the funds are allocated and utilized.
Some key measures to ensure accountability include:
- Community Consultation: Ensuring that Indigenous-led organizations and affected families have a voice in determining funding priorities.
- Impact Assessments: Regular evaluations to measure the effectiveness of funded programs and identify areas for improvement.
- Public Reporting: Periodic updates on fund disbursement and program outcomes to maintain transparency with stakeholders and the public.
A Call to Action for Corporate Canada
The partnership between the Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health and the Manitoba Government serves as an example of how private corporations can take meaningful action toward reconciliation and social justice. It sets a precedent for other businesses to engage in corporate philanthropy that addresses historical and systemic injustices.
Moving forward, there is an opportunity for other corporate entities to:
- Invest in initiatives that support Indigenous communities and advance gender equity.
- Foster inclusive workplaces that recognize and uplift Indigenous voices.
- Engage in long-term partnerships with Indigenous-led organizations to create sustainable impact.
The $10 million donation by the Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health marks a historic investment in the well-being of Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit peoples. By supporting the Manitoba Government’s MMIWG2S+ Healing and Empowerment Fund, this contribution will provide much-needed resources for families and communities grappling with the devastating impact of violence against Indigenous peoples.
This initiative is more than just a financial commitment—it is a step toward justice, healing, and empowerment. It recognizes the need for systemic change and underscores the importance of collective action in building a safer and more equitable future for all Indigenous communities.
