The federal government is providing $75 million to organizations that help Indigenous people living in urban areas and off reserves.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau started his day speaking to Canadians about the initiatives his government has already announced for First Nation communities struggling to fight COVID-19.
On March 18, the Government of Canada announced $305 million for a new, distinctions-based Indigenous Community Support Fund to address immediate needs in Indigenous communities, and help them respond to COVID-19. The Fund included $15 million in support for Indigenous organizations that provide services to Indigenous peoples living in urban centres and off reserve.
Trudeau says today’s funding announcement will support more community-based projects that address the critical needs of Indigenous populations during this crisis, including food security, mental health support services, and sanitation and protective equipment.
The additional funding could also help with other needs, such as support for Elders, transportation, and educational materials for Indigenous children and youth. Funding for projects will start rolling out in the coming weeks.
