It’s a place to sit – and more.

On Wednesday morning, the Tipi of Hope Foundation unveiled its first “Bank of Hope” at the Peter Lougheed Center.

It was created in collaboration with indigenous survivors and elders.

A QR code on the bench provides links to services for Indigenous patients and staff.

“Now that the bank is here, it creates a safe physical space because it’s a bank for the indigenous peoples that will come,” said Melissa Fundy, founder and president of Tipi of Hope.

“They can now access all the services available through this bench, like spotting, (and) prayer,” added Fundy, “and then it just helps continue the conversation around how we break down those barriers for Indigenous patients and staff.”

The Tipi of Hope Foundation was founded by Melissa Fundy

Tipi of Hope plans to unveil a second bank in early 2025.

They are also looking for indigenous carpenters to be involved in the project.