April 16, 2021
Province Providing More Than $1 Million for Mental Health and Addictions Supports
The Manitoba government is providing $1.2 million for mental health and addictions initiatives through the Canada-Manitoba Home and Community Care and Mental Health and Addictions Services Funding Agreement, Families Minister Rochelle Squires and Mental Health, Wellness and Recovery Minister Audrey Gordon announced today.
“Our government understands that mental health is just as important as physical health and we know that many people are struggling with the additional pressures created by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Gordon. “We are committed to protecting Manitobans, and this investment will help ensure that high-quality mental health and addictions services are available to those who need them.”
The ministers noted the province is providing funding for a variety of organizations and initiatives including:
• $810,000 to Blue Thunderbird Family Care Inc. to extend the Granny’s House community respite pilot project for a second year and expand it to a second location;
• $200,000 to the Manitoba Adolescent Treatment Centre for clinician assessment and referral services in Thompson;
• $60,000 for Community Living disABILITY Services clients for Naloxone kits;
• $123,000 to the Mount Carmel Clinic for its Super Dads Program and other services;
• $35,000 to the Clan Mothers Healing Village for its public education campaign against sexual exploitation;
• $30,000 to the Manitoba Association of Women’s Shelters for a virtual staff training curriculum; and
• $21,000 to the Canadian Mental Health Association for Thrival Kits (virtual component).
“We are focused on supporting vulnerable populations, including children and youth, and an increase in community prevention services for families will help reduce their risk of involvement with Manitoba Child and Family Services,” said Squires. “This investment will also improve access to mental health assessments and services for youth in the Thompson area, and create much-needed virtual access to mental wellness programming for children.”
The Canada-Manitoba Home and Community Care and Mental Health and Addictions Services Funding Agreement supports services across a spectrum of mental health and addictions needs.
The ministers noted this investment aligns with recommendations in the VIRGO report, and reflects community needs established through engagement and consultation to identify best practices that recognize the importance of cultural connection, safety and prevention.
The Manitoba government has taken a whole of government approach to addressing mental health and addictions, and has invested $49.4 million in 29 initiatives for these issues across multiple departments since 2016.
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