Indigenous communities in southwestern Ontario are getting just over $2 million to help expand mental health and addictions programs.
Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Monte McNaughton announced on Monday the funding from the provincial government for the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation, and the Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre (SOAHAC).
"No matter where you live, everyone knows someone impacted by mental health and addiction,” said McNaughton, who also serves as Ontario's minister of labour, immigration, training, and skills development. “This investment is terrific news for our Indigenous communities and will help ensure they have access to appropriate mental health and addiction supports when they need them most.”
Chippewas of the Thames First Nation will be getting $1,160,000, while Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation's allocation of the funds is $659,083.
The Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre will split $273,375 between its London and Chippewa locations.
“It is with great pride and appreciation that we accept this nominal gift to help us combat the worldwide problem with mental health and addictions in our community,” Kimberly Bressette, Chief of the Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation, said in a statement. “The health of our community depends on us addressing our problem from a grassroots standpoint. The funds received will assist our First Nation in accomplishing some of these goals.”