Building Networks to Shake Up Systems
Toronto Aboriginal Support Services Council (TASSC)
TASSC is a leading nonprofit research, policy and advocacy organization that addresses the social determinants of health to improve and enhance the socio-economic prospects and cultural wellbeing of Indigenous people living in the city of Toronto. Its membership currently includes 21 Indigenous-led organizations that make up a majority of the designated social services providers for Indigenous people living in Toronto.
80,000 Indigenous people live in Toronto; 90% of them live below the low income cut off.
Source: Our Health Data
After losing its office space during COVID, which hindered its operations and support for frontline member organizations, TASSC successfully advocated for a $2 million investment from Indigenous Services Canada to purchase and renovate a new collective and shared gathering space. TASSC envisions that this Indigenous-owned and operated space will provide a safe, accessible and culturally appropriate space to serve the community.
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Captions:
Top Right: Participants at Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre’s 5th annual Youth Gathering
Bottom Left: The next generation of allies
We acknowledge we are on the traditional territories of the Huron-Wendat, the Anishinabek Nation, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. While Indigenous communities in Toronto remain strong, vibrant, and resilient, they need support to address and overcome the impact of colonialism and systemic inequalities. Furthering Indigenous reconciliation and sovereignty are integral to achieving a more fair and just society where everyone can thrive.
We aim to be an ally and to fund local Indigenous organizations.