Mental health initiatives for First Nations residents in southwestern Ontario are being given a financial boost.
The province is setting aside over $2-million to ensure Indigenous communities and organizations have access to traditional land and water-based healing programs.
Chippewas of the Thames First Nation and Kettle and Stony Point First Nation will together receive $1.8 million as part of a nearly $33 million investment into over 100 Indigenous mental health and addictions programs designed to meet the needs of Indigenous communities around the province.
“It is with great pride and appreciation that we accept this nominal gift to help us combat the worldwide problem with mental health and addictions in our community,” said Kimberly Bressette, Chief of the Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation. “The health of our community depends on us addressing our problem from a grassroots standpoint. The funds received will assist our First Nation in accomplishing some of these goals.”
The Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre (SOAHAC) is also receiving more than $273,000 for its programs, and almost $8 million will support expanded health services including traditional healing and access to trauma-informed care training.
“No matter where you live, everyone knows someone impacted by mental health and addiction,” said Monte McNaughton, MPP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex. “This investment is terrific news for our Indigenous communities and will help ensure they have access to appropriate mental health and addiction supports when they need them most.”