A Legacy of Healing and Reconciliation: The Indigenous Healing Garden Opens at the Misericordia

At Covenant Foundation, we fund enhanced spaces and innovations in health care, but this is not like any other project. This garden is a legacy space. It is a place that nurtures both body and soul, honours Indigenous culture and identity and serves as a living symbol of reconciliation for generations to come. 

Partnership with our Indigenous communities 

The idea for the Indigenous Healing Garden emerged several years ago during conversations about how best to use available space at the Misericordia. Staff identified a strong desire for an Indigenous ceremonial space where families could gather, pray and hold ceremonies. From the very beginning, Covenant Health worked closely with Indigenous partners to ensure the space reflected cultural traditions and needs. 

“It was really important that we did this the right way,” said Project Lead Rosemary Malowany. “We wanted to listen first, build relationships, and create something meaningful and respectful for Indigenous families who come here.” 

Powered by donors 

The garden was made possible by the generosity of Covenant Foundation donors, including Synergy Corporation, represented by Dennis Mozak at the opening event. 

“Donor support is incredibly important,” Rosemary said. “Most healthcare funding goes to operations, but spaces like this bring real healing. We are so grateful to Covenant Foundation’s donors for making this possible.” 

When the grant application for the garden came before Covenant Foundation’s review committee, the project sparked excitement and the decision to fund it was unanimous.  

“This is not just any new space. It is a legacy project,” said Lisa Munro, president and CEO of Covenant Foundation. “Families will gather here. Caregivers will pause here to recharge. Indigenous ceremonies and education will take place here. That is the impact of this garden.” 

Last year alone, Covenant Foundation funded over 100 grants across Alberta, totaling a record-breaking $2.4 million. The Indigenous Healing Garden stands as a visible, lasting reminder of what donor generosity makes possible.  

A living promise 

Open daily during daylight hours, the Indigenous Healing Garden is already a sacred space for reflection, ceremony and healing. It will host cultural events, educational sessions and family gatherings. This new garden represents what reconciliation in health care can look like: listening, respect and partnership. 

“Reconciliation begins with listening and acknowledging truth,” Rosemary continued. “This garden is one way we can honour that truth and create spaces that reflect and respect Indigenous culture and healing traditions.” 

The garden’s impact goes beyond the physical space and will create a lasting shift in how Indigenous health care is experienced and shared. 

“Years from now, long after today’s celebration, people will still come here to sit, reflect and heal,” Lisa said. “This garden is a legacy of reconciliation and the power of community coming together to create something lasting and beautiful.” 

At Covenant Foundation, we partner with donors to enhance healing spaces across Covenant hospitals and facilities. These spaces help improve quality of life for patients and their families. Will you join us in making a difference with a donation today?