Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health Makes $10-Million Donation to MMIWG2S+ Healing and Empowerment Endowment Fund

February 14, 2025

The Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health is donating $10 million to Manitoba’s MMIWG2S+ Healing and Empowerment Endowment Fund, Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine, minister responsible for women and gender equity, announced today.

“Every one of us has a role to play in building a better future for Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit peoples in our province,” said Fontaine. “That includes all levels of government, non-profit and for-profit organizations, and even individual Manitobans. This significant contribution from Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health is an example of how corporations can answer the call to this work – by actioning their commitment to reconciliation with real, tangible supports to community, families and survivors.”

Launched in 2024 with an initial $15-million investment, the MMIWG2S+ Healing and Empowerment Endowment Fund will generate revenue from funds managed by The Winnipeg Foundation. These funds will be used to provide application-based supports for healing and empowerment for MMIWG2S+ families. The Manitoba government is working with MMIWG2S+ families, community partners and the Matriarch Circle to set eligibility and distribution guidelines for the first round of funds that will become eligible later this year.

The MMIWG2S+ Healing and Empowerment Endowment Fund was the first foundational initiative of Mino’Ayaawag Ikwewag: All Women Doing Well, Manitoba’s provincial strategy to support the safety, protection and empowerment of Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit and gender-diverse relatives.

“As the largest single donation from Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health, this agreement is a demonstration of our ongoing commitment to furthering equity and ensuring the well-being of women across Canada,” said Jeff Leger, president, Shoppers Drug Mart and chair, Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health. “Thanks to the leadership of the government of Manitoba, we are proud to contribute to the work of Mino’Ayaawak Ikwewag and to the sustained healing and empowerment for Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirit peoples across the province.”

To learn more about the MMIWG2S+ Healing and Empowerment Endowment Fund through The Winnipeg Foundation, visit: https://mycharitytools.com/gift/wpgfdn/donate?fund=5920.

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For more information:

• Public information, contact Manitoba Government Inquiry: mgi@gov.mb.ca or 1-866-626-4862 or 204-945-3744.
• Media requests for general information, contact Communications and Engagement: newsroom@gov.mb.ca.
• Media requests for ministerial comment, contact Cabinet Communications: cabcom@manitoba.ca.

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