Indigenous Friendship Centres are getting cash from the province.
In another funding announcement, Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres are getting over $800,000 to aide in raising awareness, reducing stigma and to support Indigenous-led mental health and wellness initiatives for Indian Residential School (IRS) Survivors, families and communities.
Cultural based workshops, along with traditional healing methods and educations will be provided though this funding. The initiative to help foster and restore self-respect and identity and to help with emotional supports and mental health.
In a written statement, the Minister of Indigenous Affairs stated;
“It is critical that culturally appropriate, trauma-informed mental health supports are available for Indian Residential School Survivors, their families and Indigenous communities,”
“Our government continues to seek direction from Indigenous partners on their funding needs for Indian Residential School burial investigations, including funding for critical mental health supports.”
There are 29 Friendship Centres across Ontario that will be benefitting from the cash flow. These safe places are for community members and Indigenous people living in urban spaces to gather, connect with one another and receive culturally relevant services
A National Residential School Crisis Line is available to provide support to former residential school students. You can access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-Hour National Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419. There is also the Hope for Wellness Help Line at 1-855-242-3310, including an online chat function through their website.
