Canadian Tire Corporation Expands Partnership with Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund to Support The Blanket Fund

Expanded initiative will advance Indigenous-led art, culture, and education projects across Canada

TORONTO — The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund (DWF) has announced an expanded partnership with Canadian Tire Corporation (CTC) in support of Oshki Wupoowane | The Blanket Fund, a national initiative that empowers Indigenous and Indigenous-led cultural, artistic, and educational projects.

Building on a partnership first established in 2022, Canadian Tire will now provide long-term financial support to The Blanket Fund—continuing a reconciliation journey originally launched by Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) in 2022. Following CTC’s acquisition of HBC’s intellectual property, including the Hudson’s Bay Point Blanket, the retailer has committed to donating 100% of its net proceeds from each blanket sold, with a minimum annual contribution of $1 million.

“While The Blanket Fund has only been in existence for three years, we have already seen the incredible impact it is having at the community level,” said Sarah Midanik, President and CEO of the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund. “With this commitment from CTC, we can continue to provide direct support to grassroots projects supporting reconciliation through culture, art, and education.”

Empowering Indigenous-Led Projects

The Blanket Fund’s grants are divided into two key streams designed to amplify Indigenous voices and self-determination:

• Capacity Building Grants: Multi-year grants that help Indigenous organizations expand operations, grow sustainably, and strengthen their impact.

• Reconciliation Action Grants: One-time grants that support community-based projects connecting Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples through shared experiences in arts, culture, and education.

A Legacy of Reconciliation

The Blanket Fund was created through extensive consultation with Indigenous leaders, Elders, and community organizations across Canada. Its name pays homage to the Hudson’s Bay Point Blanket—a symbol both of Canadian heritage and the complex colonial history associated with it.

Now under CTC’s stewardship, the program continues its purpose: ensuring the blanket’s legacy becomes a tool for healing, learning, and unity.

“We are exceptionally proud to be the stewards of HBC’s legacy,” said Greg Hicks, President and CEO of Canadian Tire Corporation. “The Hudson’s Bay Point Blanket is a Canadian symbol with a complex history, and through our deepened relationship with DWF, we are committed to ensuring its cultural preservation and meaningful reconciliation for generations to come.”

Supporting Cultural Awareness Within CTC

This renewed partnership builds on Canadian Tire’s growing reconciliation efforts. In 2022, the company co-created a Legacy Space at its Toronto headquarters in collaboration with DWF, Indigenous artists, and curators. The dedicated space serves as a hub for employees to learn, reflect, and engage in ongoing reconciliation education.

Together, DWF’s community expertise and CTC’s national reach are expected to expand The Blanket Fund’s impact, ensuring long-term, sustainable funding for Indigenous-led initiatives across the country.

To learn more or explore partnership opportunities, visit downiewenjack.ca/the-blanket-fund.

SOURCE Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited

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