Indigenous residents in urban centres and off reserve to gain additional COVID-19 related supports

The Government of Canada has announced plans for additional supports for Indigenous Peoples, addressing concerns that residents of urban areas and those who are living off reserve were left out of previous funding announcements for communities across the nation.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the announcement on Thursday, outlining that 75 million dollars has been put towards the new initiative, the funding will be used towards will support for 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 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.

“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.” -- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Thursday with further funding for Indigenous Peoples

Few details were released with yesterday's announcement as to how the money will be distributed in the Northwest, though it was noted that the programs associated with the 75 million will be rolled out in the weeks to come.

The full statement from the Prime Minister's office can be found here.

There are a number of Indigenous resident who live in Prince Rupert residing in the city off reserve from local communities, other members from local First nations live in many other communities across the province.

For further notes on Federal funding initiatives see our House of Commons archive page.