Ontario is out with funding to provide support for Nishnawbe Aski Nation Survivors and member communities during burial investigations at former Residential Schools.
The province has allocated $475,000 over two years.
The goal is to help in the healing process for those affected by the six former schools within NAN territory.
The funding will help NAN develop, consult and implement a Survivor-led Reclamation and Healing Strategy.
It includes the provision of culturally appropriate, trauma-informed mental health and wellness initiatives.
The money will also provide communications and technical supports, as well as public education and awareness initiatives related to the legacy and impacts of the Indian Residential School system.
NAN Deputy Grand Chief Anna Betty Achneepineskum says, “This funding will help us develop healing initiatives to support our families and communities through community-driven initiatives as they search for their loved ones. The search for these innocent children will be a painful experience and needs to be done with great care and respect. We look forward to implementing our Reclamation and Healing Strategy and will continue to develop and implement cultural and spiritual mental health supports to support all those who undertake this important work.”
Minister of Indigenous Affairs Greg Rickford adds, “Our government continues to seek direction from Indigenous partners and organizations, like Nishnawbe Aski Nation, to address critical funding needs for Indian Residential School burial investigations and related work. Ontario will work to ensure that Indigenous communities have access to available funding to support the full range of important work that lies ahead.”
