Resource

Residential school survivor resources

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) shares our deep sorrow about the devastating legacies of residential schools. We recognize the far-reaching and continuing impacts of rediscovering unmarked graves at their former sites across Canada. We offer heartfelt condolences to survivors, their families and all Indigenous Peoples across the country who are mourning these tragic losses.

We encourage everyone to take a moment and reflect on these devastating discoveries and the relentless trauma Indigenous Peoples have experienced as a result of past, present and ongoing colonialism. With each tragedy, we are reminded of VCH's role and responsibility in advancing Truth and Reconciliation, and its commitment to providing culturally safe health-care service delivery. VCH upholds the Provincial Declaration of Commitment to Cultural Safety and Humility, Truth and Reconciliation Commissions Calls to Action, and the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous People. We remain unwavering on our path towards reconciliation and in our commitment to do better.

As part of that commitment, we have assembled resources to support Indigenous patients, clients, and staff who have been affected by residential schools and the recent discoveries.

Resources

    • Indian Residential School Crisis Line

      A national service for anyone experiencing pain or distress as a result of their residential school experience. Support is available 24/7.

    • Indian Residential School Crisis Line (toll-free)

    • Hope for Wellness Help Line (toll-free)

      Offers immediate mental health counselling and crisis intervention by phone or online chat to all Indigenous people across Canada.

    • Hope for Wellness Help Line (online chat)

    • KUU-US Crisis Line Society (adults/Elders line)

      Provides crisis services for Indigenous people in BC

    • KUU-US Crisis Line Society (children/youth line)

    • KUU-US Crisis Line Society (toll-free)

    • Métis Crisis Line

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