Indigenous Health Centre of Tiohtià:ke (IHCT) Addressing Health Disparities in Montreal for Urban Indigenous People, including Survivors and Families of the 60s Scoop
April 25, 2025
Indigenous Health Centre of Tiohtià:ke (IHCT) https://ihct.ca/ The Indigenous Health Centre of Tiohtià:ke (IHCT) is launching its first-ever dedicated program for Sixties Scoop Survivors in Montreal:
Tahonsa’ten:ti (To Come Home): Facilitating Cultural Wellness for Sixties Scoop Survivors, Families, and Others Impacted.
With more Indigenous community members accessing the Centre’s services each week—including Survivors and their families—IHCT has become a trusted place of first contact. For many, especially those impacted by the Sixties Scoop, healing often begins in a healthcare setting. The Centre is a natural home for this pilot program.
Walking with Survivors: How IHCT Supports Sixties Scoop Healing
In the heart of Montreal, the Indigenous Health Centre of Tiohtià:ke is quietly transforming lives. Born from years of advocacy and deep community collaboration, IHCT was created in response to a critical call: the need for culturally grounded, trauma-informed, and holistic services for urban Indigenous people. For Sixties Scoop Survivors and their families, this vision is not only welcome—it is vital.
A Shared Commitment to Healing and Reconnection
Incorporated in 2016, the Centre grew out of the Montreal Urban Aboriginal Community Strategy Network’s Health Working Committee. Following a comprehensive health needs assessment and service mapping in Montreal, it became clear that Indigenous people lacked access to culturally appropriate care. The call was—and remains—for a space rooted in belonging, safety, and Indigenous knowledge. That commitment aligns deeply with the National Sixties Scoop Healing Foundation of Canada’s mission: to accompany Survivors and their descendants on healing journeys that restore culture, dignity, and identity.
In the heart of Montreal, the Indigenous Health Centre of Tiohtià:ke is quietly transforming lives. Born from years of advocacy and deep community collaboration, IHCT was created in response to a critical call: the need for culturally grounded, trauma-informed, and holistic services for urban Indigenous people. For Sixties Scoop Survivors and their families, this vision is not only welcome—it is vital.
A Shared Commitment to Healing and Reconnection
Incorporated in 2016, the Centre grew out of the Montreal Urban Aboriginal Community Strategy Network’s Health Working Committee. Following a comprehensive health needs assessment and service mapping in Montreal, it became clear that Indigenous people lacked access to culturally appropriate care. The call was—and remains—for a space rooted in belonging, safety, and Indigenous knowledge. That commitment aligns deeply with the National Sixties Scoop Healing Foundation of Canada’s mission: to accompany Survivors and their descendants on healing journeys that restore culture, dignity, and identity.
Programs Rooted in Culture, Connection, and Choice
One powerful example is IHCT’s weekly Elder drop-in program for Sixties Scoop Survivors and their descendants.
Every Wednesday from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, Cree Elder Morningstar Orr—a Survivor herself—offers guidance and support through “Medicine in Words.”
With over 30 years of experience in social work, her gentle and grounded presence offers not only traditional knowledge, but also a profound sense of solidarity for those still finding their way home.
“I share a message of love and kindness for all people.”– Morningstar Orr
Body Movement as Medicine: A Survivor-Led Wellness Initiative
Another healing opportunity is the Centre’s upcoming session: “Body Movement as Medicine,” led by Natasha Coulombe (Tsilhqot’in First Nation)—a Sixties Scoop Survivor and naturopath.
Date: Friday, April 25
Time: 10:30 AM– 11:45 AM
Location: Room211, IHCT
This gentle, trauma-informed session encourages Survivors and descendants to return to the body—our first home and most honest witness. Drawing from practices like Feldenkrais and Indigenous teachings, the class supports reconnection with self, land, and breath. No prior experience is needed. Movements are adapted to meet participants exactly where they are.
Drumming as Healing: A Partnership with AMI-Quebec
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Starting March25, 2025, IHCT is partnering with AMI-Quebec to offer a seven-week drumming program led by Nina Segalowitz, a Survivor and celebrated hand drummer. This series invites Sixties Scoop Survivors and descendants to begin—or rekindle—their relationship with the drum, a powerful symbol of identity and expression.
Sessions: 6:00– 8:00 PM
Location: 2100Av. De Marlowe, Suite 236
Registration: wellness@ihct.ca | 514-482-8557 ext. 109
Watch the video introduction https://amiquebec.org/drum/
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Supported Through the Foundation’s 2024 Grant Program
The National Sixties Scoop Healing Foundation of Canada is proud to support initiatives like these through the 2024 Annual Grant Program. IHCT exemplifies the values our Foundation upholds—meeting Survivors and descendants where they are, and walking with them in strength, care, and culture.
To register or learn more about IHCT’s programming, contact:wellness@ihct.ca | 514-482-8557
Together, we walk forward grounded in culture, connected by story, and united in healing.