The federal government has announced funding for groups that provide support to Indigenous peoples in urban areas. (File Photo/paNOW Staff)

By Michael Joel-Hansen

covid-19 support

Federal government providing support for Indigenous groups, friendship centres

May 21, 2020 | 5:38 PM

The Government of Canada is making funding available to organizations working with Indigenous people living in urban areas.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the federal government will contribute $75 million to a variety of groups including friendship centres. Janet Carrier, executive director with the Prince Albert Indian Métis Friendship Centre, said it is important these funds are being made available.

“I am just really pleased that our federal government has started to realize that the urban Indigenous community is left out in a lot of things,” she said.

Carrier said it is too early to know how much of the funding will be coming to P.A. She explained they have remained open during the COVID-19 pandemic but have been forced to make changes to how they deliver services.

“Anything that we do because of this virus, means that we need more people to do it,” she said.

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The centre has stayed open throughout the provincial state of emergency, but only a certain number of people are allowed in the building. The significant increase in disinfecting the location required more staff, she said.

One specific area of concern Carrier has is about Indigenous children being left behind due to schools being forced to close. Carrier said she is worried many homes may not have the technology needed to take part in online learning. She added her organization is hoping to take help on this front.

“That’s one area we’re going to try to hone in on,” she said.

John Hannikenne, president of the Coalition of Indigenous People of Saskatchewan, which represents Indigenous people living in urban areas along with those who are non-status welcomed the announcement.

“It’s much needed for the urban people,” he said.

Hannikenne said there are people, primarily living in urban areas who are falling through the cracks as they are not covered by Métis locals or First Nations. He added it is good to hear that groups like the friendship centre are getting support.

“I know the hard work that they do and they’re always on the front lines,” he said.

Going forward, Hannikenne said there needs to be discussion about how to provide more economic opportunities for Indigenous people living in urban areas. This includes having more of a part in the overall economy.

Hannikenne said there as well needs to be discussion on how smaller Indigenous groups can work together.

“They only service a smaller and smaller group every year,” he said.

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MichaelJoel.Hansen@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @mjhskcdn