New health projects empower Indigenous communities to address chronic diseases

Bryan Hendry • November 30, 2020

THUNDER BAY – Indigenous communities burdened with up to three times the national rates of chronic diseases now have access to an innovative health project fund established by Bimaadzwin and Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. These community-driven pilot projects – specifically aimed at reducing type 2 diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – are intended to empower Nations in improving health and wellness.


The Indigenous Health Pilot Project is a collaboration between Boehringer Ingelheim Canada, Bimaadzwin and Indigenous health policy leaders. Funding is available to advance national health and wellness projects that go “beyond the pill” in addressing type 2 diabetes and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among Canada’s Indigenous Peoples. Further investments in other chronic illnesses are planned following the successful launch of four initial pilot projects.

Isadore Day

“Our vision is empowerment – building relationships between Indigenous communities, the private sector, and other interested partners through involvement in pilot projects with equal participation at all steps,” explains Isadore Day, CEO, Bimaadzwin. “We need more partnerships like this to tackle the monumental endeavor of improving health outcomes and quality of life for our Indigenous communities.”


With guidance from a national steering committee, the team aspires to close the gap in health care disparities for Canada’s Indigenous Peoples who are significantly disadvantaged by a high incidence of chronic illnesses and depleted mental health.

“As a family-owned company, Boehringer Ingelheim is committed to advancing humankind and we strive to make the world healthier for current and future generations,” said Andrea Sambati, President and CEO of Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. “The Indigenous Health Pilot Project will allow us to collaborate with Indigenous communities and explore opportunities to help improve health and wellness for Indigenous Peoples in Canada.”


Expressions of interest can be submitted online at www.indigenoushealthprojects.com

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By Bimaadzwin Team September 4, 2025
A moment of remembrance, a call to healing: September 30, 2025 This National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, invites all Canadians to pause, remember, learn, and act in solidarity with Indigenous survivors, families, and communities affected by the residential school system. It is a day of solemn commemoration and a powerful reminder that Every Child Matters. Why this day matters Established in 2013 through a survivor’s heart-wrenching story, Orange Shirt Day symbolizes not only the tangible losses of identity, culture, language, and dignity, but also the enduring resilience of Indigenous peoples. In 2021, this movement became Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation—a federal statutory holiday born out of Call to Action 80, reflecting the nation’s commitment to facing an uncomfortable past and working toward repair. Looking ahead: September 30, 2025 As we approach the 5th statutory observance of this deeply significant day and the 13th Orange Shirt Day, it’s an opportunity to engage in collective truth-telling and healing. Across the country, communities, educational institutions, organizations, and individuals will come together—raising the Survivors’ Flag, honouring stories, hosting walks, sharing teachings, and wearing orange in unity. Bimaadzwin’s reflection and commitment At Bimaadzwin, we stand with Indigenous families in their pursuit of justice, healing, and equity. As we observe this day, we remind ourselves that commemoration must be interwoven with lasting action—through supporting survivors, empowering communities, and advancing systemic transformation. Isadore Day, CEO, Bimaadzwin shares: “We stand with First Nations families and communities in seeking justice and healing for the harms caused by discriminatory systems. This day is an opportunity to honour the resilience of our children and their futures—because every child truly matters.” This sentiment echoes Bimaadzwin’s broader work—advocating for the rights of children and families and supporting claims under the First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle settlement, which offers a concrete pathway toward healing. How you can honour Every Child Matters Wear orange to show unwavering support and remembrance. Attend or host community commemorations —from walks and ceremonies to flag raisings. Engage in learning —understand the legacy of residential schools, the 94 Calls to Action, and how reconciliation can be enacted. Support grassroots and Indigenous-led initiatives , including the Orange Shirt Society’s vital education and advocacy work. On September 30, 2025, as we honour the children who never returned home and, with them, the enduring strength of survivors and their communities, let us also affirm our responsibility—to uphold that Every Child Matters not just in name, but in lasting, equitable action and care. Together, may we continue walking the path of truth, healing, and reconciliation—one step, one story, one child at a time.
By Bimaadzwin Team June 19, 2025
National Indigenous Peoples Day 2025