Question Period Note: Federal Response COVID-19

• We recognize that many Indigenous communities face unique challenges in addressing COVID-19.

• We are investing $305 million in a new distinctions-based Indigenous Community Support Fund to address the immediate needs in First Nation, Inuit and Métis Nation communities.

• $215 million will be distributed for First Nations, $45 million for Inuit, $30 million for Métis Nation communities, and $15 million in proposal-based funding for First Nations off reserve and urban Indigenous organizations and communities.

• We continue to work with provinces and territories to ensure essential supports and resources are in place.

N/A

If Pressed:
• These new funds will flow directly to Indigenous communities and groups across the country and will provide Indigenous leadership with the flexibility needed to address immediate needs resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The call for proposals for First Nations off reserve and urban Indigenous organizations is now closed. 94 proposals were selected to receive funding that is expected to start flowing to successful organizations in early May.

If pressed on additional measures:
• The Indigenous Community Support Fund is in addition to needs-based support for First Nations and Inuit health and emergency management, and complements the previously announced $27 billion in direct support that is available to all Canadians, including First Nations, Inuit and Métis.
• We also announced $10 million for emergency family violence prevention shelters on reserve and in Yukon to support women and children fleeing violence.