Two projects that focus on mental health supports for Indigenous Peoples are receiving federal funding.
Just west of North Bay at the Elders Hall at Anishinabek Nation, Mona Fortier, President of the Treasury Board announced $2.5 million for the First Peoples Wellness Circle.
$1.5 million will be used to create and promote a guide to help First Nations’ Mental Wellness Workforce support those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Indigenous Peoples in Canada are at a higher risk of experiencing mental illness, and face unacceptable intersecting barriers in accessing mental health services and supports,” says Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health. “Our government is taking action to close those gaps and support indigenous health leadership in prevention and healing. “
The rest of the money will increase the number of mental health professionals in New Brunswick to provide culturally safe and inclusive mental health services and evaluation tools for First Nations populations.
