Gambler First Nation, November 10, 2023 - Gambler First Nation is launching a Charitable Foundation and donating $1 Million to support families of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Boys.

The John/James Tanner Legacy Foundation will seek to assist the families of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Boys through providing educational, financial, social, and psychological assistance to children and families affected by the disappearance or death of a family member.

“The John/James Tanner Legacy Foundation is a response to the call for more support from the families that have been impacted by the disappearance or murder of so many of our missing Indigenous women and girls across Canada,” said Chief David LeDoux of Gambler First Nation. “Assistance will be open to those families in need of educational, financial, social or psychological assistance to ensure that families can be cared for appropriately in their times of need.”

Gambler First Nation will be committing $1 Million to the Foundation and invites others to join in supporting the Foundation.  The Board of Directors being established will initially consist of Grand Chief Cathy Merrick – Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, Chief Cindy Woodhouse, Grand Chief of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, Jerry Daniels, Ray Anne Gray, and Kellie LeDoux the team will oversee the establishment and operations of the new Foundation. 

“It’s deeply important for us, as Indigenous people, to take the lead in providing the assistance necessary to those affected, especially the children of our women who have been taken by so many of these tragedies. I call on those that are able, to work with us in setting up this much-needed resource for the families of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Boys. Gambler First Nation is ready to do its part, but we can reach more families through the support of others that are willing to assist.”

The Foundation is currently being established as a Charitable Foundation and will be fully operational by December 1, 2023. The Foundation expects to secure its charitable status with the Charities Directorate of the Canada Revenue Agency by July of 2024. A launch of the Foundation’s website is planned for January of 2024 which will include a central intake portal and resources to assist families of victims.  

“The Foundation’s goal is to collaborate with private and public philanthropists to assist families affected by missing or murdered Indigenous women, girls, and boys and ensuring equity of access to justice and support programs as well as increased well-being for those affected,” stated Kellie LeDoux. “We plan on having a streamlined application for families to be able to make requests for assistance whether it be to assist with access to justice or counseling, or other needs that are not currently being met”.

Gambler First Nation is one of the smallest indigenous communities in Manitoba, with a total membership of 352 of Ojibway descent, the majority are non-resident. We are located approximately five miles west of the village of Binscarth and 17 miles southwest of the town of Russell.