New holistic wellness fund to honour the late Grand Chief Cathy Merrick

A new wellness fund will honour the late Grand Chief Cathy Merrick’s goal of bringing health and healing to First Nations leadership.

On Tuesday, the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) announced it passed a resolution to establish the Late Grand Chief Cathy Merrick Holistic Wellness Fund.

This initiative will support the well-being of First Nation leadership, staff and personnel across the AMC and Manitoba First Nations and will be based on First Nations law, teachings, and responsibilities.

“Grand Chief Merrick led with integrity and deeply cared for our people,” said Chief Angela Levasseur of Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation in a news release.

“We carry her legacy forward with action. This fund honours her vision by supporting the health and wellness of First Nations leadership and staff. It reflects our shared responsibility to care for those who serve our Nation.”

The AMC notes the resolution calls on all levels of government to provide core funding, adding that it will also look for long-term support through corporate and philanthropic resources.

Merrick died suddenly in September 2024 after collapsing outside the Winnipeg law courts.