OTTAWA – “COVID-19 is having unique impacts on First Nations, Inuit, and Métis across our country. For Indigenous peoples living off-reserve, in urban centres, or separated from their communities, it can be even more challenging to access the help they need. We are listening to Indigenous peoples and organizations, and providing them with support to respond to this crisis,” states Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada.
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.
Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau has announced $75 million in new funding for Indigenous organizations providing services to Indigenous peoples in urban centres and off-reserve.
This additional funding 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. It 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.
Quick Facts
- As part of the $305 million distinctions-based Indigenous Community Support Fund announced on March 18, the Government of Canada provided:
- $215 million for First Nations, allocated to each First Nation based on population, remoteness and community well-being
- $45 million for Inuit, which flowed to each of the four land claims organizations through an allocation determined by the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and regional Inuit land claims organizations
- $30 million for Métis Nation communities, which flowed through each of the Governing Members
- $15 million for Indigenous organizations and communities providing services to Indigenous peoples in urban centres and off-reserve.
- The new $75 million will provide additional funding for the many organizations meeting the critical needs of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis in urban centres and off-reserve.
