Indigenous peoples are the nation’s most marginalized demographic. Colonialism, residential schools, inequitable distribution of resources and geographic isolation have resulted in a range of devastating social and economic challenges for First Nations communities. Many families living on reserves continue to struggle to feed and protect their children.

KEY FACTS   Nearly 1.8 million people identify as members of an indigenous group(s). Currently, there are 615 First Nation communities. The indigenous population in Canada is the fastest-growing. 1 in 4 First Nations children lives in poverty, compared to the national rate of 1 in 10. The First Nations infant mortality rate is 1.5 times higher than the national rate. First Nations infants are four times more likely to die of injury. The suicide rate in First Nations communities is three to seven times greater than the national rate.

Photo by Brent Wesley (Wawatay News) for Save the Children.

Our vision for Canada

Save the Children’s vision is of a reconciled Canada - a nation of equity, respect and partnership where every child attains the right to survival, safety, protection, development and participation. 

We are committed to:

• Recognizing the diversity of the First Peoples of Canada.
• Growing the number of projects we support in a sustainable way.
• Working in partnership with community-led organizations.

National Programs

Save the Children, along with Aboriginal communities and organizations, is working to develop ways to create more positive environments that will empower a stronger sense of well-being among children and youth.