Métis Nation-Saskatchewan invests in front line services
- EFN Staff | December 30, 2021
Saskatchewan –The MN–S Ministry of Health is donating a total of $930,000 to over two dozen organizations across the province that provide front-line support to Métis experiencing difficulties associated with disrupted employment, financial pressure on households, and stress that negatively impacts mental wellness. These funds will help the organizations continue providing essential services in their respective communities.
“The work of front-line organizations such as those addressing mental wellness, food insecurity, harm reduction, housing insecurity, and other important services are especially critical,” MN–S Minister of Health Marg Friesen said in a release. “Many Métis and First Nations individuals depend on these services for their physical health, mental well being and safety.”
In determining the most critical supports as mental wellness, food insecurity, housing insecurity, children and young families, the MN–S investment targets establishments providing access to those supports directly to Métis people in need.
“We are grateful for the work of front-line service providers who continue to offer critical care during this challenging time. Their ongoing efforts are not only helping reduce the spread of COVID-19 but are also addressing other serious mental wellness and health issues,” said MN–S President Glen McCallum. “This is not a long-term solution, but we hope this financial support helps ensure the continued operations of delivering critical, life-saving support to those who need it the most at a time they need it the most.”
Some of the organizations receiving MN–S funding include the Canadian Mental Health Association, food banks across the province, Meadow Lake Outreach Ministries, the Piwapan Women’s Shelter in La Ronge and Homeward Bound in Prince Albert.
“Métis Nation is such a huge support to our organization. The pressure on individuals and organizations at this time of the year is tough. Most of our clients are on income supports and that doesn’t give them anywhere enough to live on,” Homeward Bound Chief Executive Officer Donna Brooks said. “This MN–S contribution gives direct supports to our most vulnerable clients, making things possible for them this season.”
President Shirley Isbister of the Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. (CUMFI), estimates more than 30 families with 75 children in the Coming Home Program will be provided with Christmas meals and gifts because of the investment. “It will support some of our most vulnerable families and help build a better quality of life for Métis people.”
MN–S Minister Friesen added, “Healthy citizens and healthy communities need our ongoing collaboration, dialogue, partnership, and financial support for essential front-line services. As the Métis government in Saskatchewan, we encourage everyone in Saskatchewan and across the Métis Nation to find ways to engage with community needs and respond with kindness, compassion and generosity.”