THUNDER BAY-- The federal government has announced funding for a number of First Nations organizations in Northwestern Ontario to hold events marking the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

The federal statutory holiday is on Sept. 30.

Grants of $10,000 each will support community commemorative projects at Ginoogaming, Mishkeegogamang, Bearskin Lake, Shoal Lake # 40, Iskatewizaagegan # 39, and Webequie First Nations.

Other recipients include the Red Rock Indian Band, the Nokiiwin Tribal Council in Thunder Bay, Grand Council Treaty # 3 in Kenora, and the Anishinaabeg of Kabapikotawangag Resource Council at Sioux Narrows.

Lakehead University will also receive $10,000 to organize "Indigenous-led Conversations with Canadians" in memory of Indigenous author Lee Maracle.

Described as a foundational figure in Indigenous literature, Maracle died in Surrey, BC last year at the age of 71.

The government on Tuesday announced a total of over $4 million to support 278 community projects and two major national commemorations of the National day for Truth and Reconciliation.

The funded projects were approved following a call for proposals.

The government said these events will help raise awareness of the history and impact of residential schools and promote healing and reconciliation.