THUNDER BAY -- The Ontario government has released details of its additional financial support for Indigenous-led healing and treatment centres, including facilities in the northwest.
Close to $53 million will go toward programs and projects including eight new and two expanded treatment centres to help people receive culturally appropriate treatment closer to home.
In a news release issued on Tuesday, the government said the investment includes 50 new treatment beds.
In total, the facilities will serve up to 650 adults and youth each year, using a combination of traditional healing and clinical approaches.
Services will include substance uses disorder treatment, holistic mental health counselling, and cultural supports.
The province is working is providing start-up costs and operational funding for facilities in partnership with the following:
- Nishnawbe Aski Nation (North West site)
- Nishnawbe Aski Nation (North East site)
- Fort Frances Tribal Area Health Services
- Waasegiizhig Nanaandawe'lyewigamig Health Access Centre (expansion)
- Whe Che He Wayo-Gamik Family Treatment Centre (expansion)
- Enaahtig Healing Lodge and Learning Centre
- Native Child and Family Services Toronto
- Six Nations of the Grand River
- United Chiefs and Councils of Mnidoo Mnising
- Tungasuvvingat Inuit
The government said the treatment centres are being implemented alongside new Indigenous mental health and wellness programs.
Funding is included for 100 new mental health workers serving 69 First Nations communities as well as urban Indigenous communities in cities such as Thunder Bay, Kenora, Sudbury, Barrie, Midland, Ottawa, London and Toronto.
