Friendship Centres are a beacon for Indigenous peoples who relocate to urban areas, or travel to larger centres from their home communities for services. These community-based organizations provide culturally appropriate services and serve as a place for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to come together, to share traditions and to learn from one another.

Newfoundland and Labrador is presently home to three Friendship Centres, which are located in St. John’s, Stephenville and Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Every Centre is as unique as the area it serves, allowing for programs and services that vary based on need.

In 2019, for the first time ever, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador provided $30,000 in core funding to each of the Friendship Centres. The core funding is in addition to service and program funding provided by departments and agencies of the Provincial Government.

First Light St. John’s Friendship Centre, formerly the St. John’s Native Friendship Centre, supports the urban Indigenous and non-Indigenous community alike by providing programs and services in the St. John’s area. First Light’s programs and services include a daycare and after-school program, and women’s, Indigenous arts, and employment assistance programs.

The Labrador Friendship Centre delivers social, cultural, health, educational, employment and developmental initiatives and supports Indigenous persons living in Happy Valley-Goose Bay and other communities in Upper Lake Melville.

The People of the Dawn Indigenous Friendship Centre  is the newest of the Friendship Centres in the Province, and assists Indigenous persons with challenges related to employment, health, education, justice and housing. Community cultural gatherings, ceremonies and teachings are integral to the Centre’s offerings. The Centre’s administrative offices are located in Stephenville, and large group, community events and cultural programs are also offered out of its St. George’s location.