Ontario is helping First Nations communities stop the spread of COVID-19 with $37.8 million in emergency funding.
Minister of Indigenous Affairs Greg Rickford says the investment includes:
-$16.4 million from the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs to provide emergency funds for food, household goods, critical supplies, transportation, support and care, responsive services and supports for urban Indigenous people, self-isolation facilities in remote and northern communities, prevention and awareness efforts, and pandemic planning.
-$10 million from the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services to support Indigenous communities and agencies in responding to the needs of vulnerable children, families and elders during the outbreak.
-$7.4 million from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing to help social service providers, charities and non-profits delivering critical housing services to Indigenous people living off-reserve.
-$4 million from the Ministry of Transportation to ensure continued service to remote and northern airports, enabling essential goods and services to continue reaching isolated communities.
Rickford says First Nations communities face unique challenges in planning for and tackling the outbreak.
The Kenora-Rainy River MPP adds “To echo Premier Ford. We will spare no expense to support the needs of Indigenous people in Ontario during these unprecedented times. During these uncertain times it is critical we work together. I’m working closely with my counterparts across all levels of government who remain ready to take all necessary actions to combat COVID-19.”
Ontario is investing $37.8 mill to support #COVID19 outbreak efforts for Indigenous communities. We are working with all partners to ensure Indigenous leaders have the tools needed to fight the spread.
Watch: https://t.co/mFYARVF8Ee @ToddSmithPC @SteveClarkPC @C_Mulroney— Greg Rickford (@GregRickford) April 7, 2020
