Tungasuvvingat Inuit

Tungasuvvingat Inuit (TI) is a Canadian Inuit-specific registered not-for-profit organization incorporated in 1987, dedicated to providing comprehensive social support and cultural services to Inuit living in urban Ontario. It operates as a multi-sector hub offering nearly 30 integrated, front-line programs designed to meet the complex and evolving needs of Inuit of all ages in the south while fostering strong connections to their northern Inuit heritage.

History and Growth

Founded with modest beginnings — an $80,000 funding base and 1.5 full-time staff — Tungasuvvingat Inuit has significantly expanded over the past three decades. Today, it employs nearly 100 staff members and maintains funding partnerships with the City of Ottawa, the Government of Ontario, and the Government of Canada. This growth mirrors the increasing Inuit population living outside the North and the concomitant demand for Inuit-specific urban services[1][3].

Services and Programs

Tungasuvvingat Inuit provides a wide range of client-centered services, including:

• Social support
• Cultural activities and education
• Employment assistance
• Youth programs
• Counselling and crisis intervention
• Substance abuse and addiction treatment through the Mamisarvik Healing Centre, which began residential treatment services in 2003 specifically addressing issues related to substance abuse, addictions, and impacts of residential schools with culturally appropriate care in both Inuktitut and English[1][3][5].

These services are designed to support Inuit through the entire life cycle, offering a one-stop resource center that responds to the rapidly changing needs of urban Inuit communities[1][3].

Core Values and Approach

TI's work is grounded in Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ), the Inuit traditional knowledge and way of knowing. These principles emphasize respect for others and relationships, fostering inclusivity, open spirit, community and family service, consensus decision-making, skill development through mentorship, collaboration, innovation, and environmental stewardship. This culturally rooted framework shapes the organization’s service delivery and community engagement[1][4].

Role and Recognition

As the only Inuit-specific urban service provider of its kind in Canada, Tungasuvvingat Inuit serves as a vital advocate and leader within both provincial and national Inuit organizational frameworks. With approximately 30% of Inuit now living outside the North, TI plays a crucial role in supporting urban Inuit health, well-being, and cultural continuity[3].

Organizational Status

Tungasuvvingat Inuit is registered with the Canada Revenue Agency as a charitable organization under the business number 108145079RR0001, complying with regulatory requirements to maintain its status as a registered charity[3].

Tungasuvvingat Inuit continues to evolve to meet the challenges faced by Inuit in urban settings, functioning not only as a service provider but also as a cultural anchor and voice for Inuit in Ontario and beyond.