Province, First Light Partner to Launch Urban Indigenous Health Clinic in St. John’s

The provincial government has announced a partnership with First Light Friendship Centre to establish an Indigenous-led health clinic in St. John’s, aimed at improving access to culturally appropriate care for the urban Indigenous population.

Health and Community Services Minister Lela Evans made the announcement at the Lunar Inn, a First Light-owned social enterprise located next to the future clinic site. She was joined by Stacey Howse, president and CEO of First Light.

The interdisciplinary clinic will focus on expanding access to primary health care, as well as mental health and addictions services. It will also support prevention and screening efforts while offering holistic, wraparound care that incorporates Indigenous culture and healing practices.

The clinic is expected to work closely with community organizations, health-care providers and NL Health Services.

The Department of Health and Community Services is providing $185,234 in the 2026-27 fiscal year to support the clinic’s establishment, with operations anticipated to begin in fall 2026.

Funding announced Monday will cover non-medical staffing. Medical personnel, including a primary care physician and several nurse practitioners, will be funded through the Medical Care Plan and the Nurse Practitioner Funding Pilot.

Once operational, the clinic is expected to serve up to 3,000 patients, including individuals who identify as Indigenous and their family or household members.

The initiative is part of the provincial government’s broader commitment to improving equity in health care and ensuring access to culturally safe services for Indigenous people across Newfoundland and Labrador.