Midwifery & Birthing Centre Project

The Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) Midwifery and Birthing Centre Project is a long-term, citizen-driven initiative grounded in the vision of restoring and advancing culturally relevant, Métis-specific midwifery care in Saskatchewan. 

Originally developed as a two-year research initiative, the project focused on building the knowledge, partnerships, and foundation needed to support Métis-led family health and midwifery services. Following this work, the project has secured five additional years of funding to move from research into action, including programs, services, and the future development of a Métis-led birthing centre. 

Phase 1: Research and Community Voices 

The first phase of the project focused on gathering the information needed to build services in a good way. This included: 

• A Literature Review on Métis maternal and family health and Indigenous midwifery in Canada
• A Legislative Review of policies impacting Indigenous midwifery and Métis health sovereignty
• A Curriculum Review of midwifery education programs and training pathways
• An Environmental Scan of midwifery and birthing centres across Canada
• A Business Model and Feasibility Analysis for a Métis-led birthing centr
• A community-led Participatory Action Research project, Lii Faam di Fleur, guided by Métis mothers with lived experience 

This work ensured that Métis voices, knowledge, and experiences are at the center of how future programs and services are designed. 

Building on these research outcomes, the MN–S is developing a Métis-specific midwifery education and training program and is pursuing formal recognition from the Saskatchewan College of Midwives. In partnership with the College, MN–S has co-submitted a Midwifery Amendment Act. This proposed legislation seeks to formally recognize Indigenous midwifery practice and accredit community-based Indigenous midwifery education programs within the provincial regulatory system. This is a critical step toward Indigenous health sovereignty and equitable access to care. 

Why Midwifery Matters 

Midwifery is an inclusive family-centered model of care that supports individuals throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. It focuses on informed choice, respect, and building trusting relationships between care providers and families. 
Midwives provide care that supports both physical and emotional well-being, with a focus on prevention, education, and advocacy. Midwifery is recognized as one of the most effective ways to improve outcomes for parents and babies while reducing unnecessary medical interventions. 

For Métis communities, midwifery is also about restoring traditional knowledge, strengthening cultural practices, and supporting self-determination in health care. Indigenous midwifery models emphasize culturally safe care that reflects values, traditions, and ways of knowing. 

MN–S is working to advance this model in Saskatchewan, including developing a Métis-specific midwifery education program and supporting legislative changes that recognize Indigenous midwifery practice.

Helpful Resources

Indigenous Milk Medicine Collective – A grassroots organization supporting Indigenous breastfeeding through education, advocacy, and community-building.

First Nations Development Institute – Works to promote Indigenous food sovereignty, including breastfeeding and first foods, by supporting traditional knowledge and health initiatives.

Breastfeeding Committee for Saskatchewan – A provincial organization dedicated to promoting breastfeeding through education, advocacy, and community-based support programs.

Mom & Kids Health Saskatchewan – Provides practical breastfeeding guidance, postpartum care information, and support for new parents in Saskatchewan.

La Leche League Canada – An organization offering mother-to-mother support, evidence-based breastfeeding information, and community groups for parents.

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Phase 2: Supporting Families Today 

As the project moves forward, MN–S is beginning to offer programs and supports for Métis families. This includes our new Perinatal Care Kit Program to support Métis birthing individuals and families during pregnancy, birth, and the early months after birth.  

Perinatal Care Kit Program 

The Perinatal Care Kit Program is designed to support Métis birthing individuals and families during pregnancy, birth, and the early months after birth. These care kits are thoughtfully assembled to provide essential items, cultural resources, and wellness resources for both parent and baby.  

This initiative reflects MN–S’ commitment to improving perinatal health outcomes, reducing barriers to care, and supporting Métis families through culturally relevant, community-based approaches. 

All care kit items were provided by Indigenous herbalists, makers, and artists or local businesses who support community development and wellness. 

Eligibility Criteria 

• Be a registered MN–S Métis citizen 
• Be currently pregnant or within the postpartum period 
• Provide one of the following:  
  
  • A doctor’s note confirming pregnancy, or
  • A birth certificate for a recent birth

Recommended Timing: 

Applicants are encouraged to apply during the third trimester of pregnancy or within the first three months postpartum to ensure timely access to the most relevant supports. Applications outside of this timeframe may still be considered on a case-by-case basis. 
For any questions, please contact midwifery@mns.ca

Data Collection and Privacy Statement 

The MN–S Midwifery Project is committed to advancing Métis data sovereignty as part of the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan’s broader mandate. All information collected through this program will be handled with care, respect, and strict confidentiality. Data will be used only for program delivery, evaluation, and to support the development of Métis-led health initiatives. It will be securely stored and managed in accordance with MN–S data governance principles, ensuring that Métis data remains protected, controlled, and used in ways that benefit Métis people and communities.