The funds will be used to fund a series of social development within Indigenous communities across the country
Sports have always been the event that transcends barriers globally, racially and ethnically. It is a common bond that unites a community and a country, therefore making it imperative governments at all levels provide adequate funding to foster growth from the early stages to the Olympic level.
Sports Minister Pascale St-Onge announced today a funding opportunity under the Sport for Social Development in Indigenous Communities program under the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec. First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities across the country can apply for $8.9 million through the first and second streams of the program during the fiscal year 2023-2024.
As part of this program, Indigenous communities have access to culturally relevant physical activity. In addition to being Indigenous-designed and Indigenous-led, eligible projects must address community-identified social development goals such as increasing employment opportunities and providing alternatives to risky behaviour.
ʺThrough this initiative, our government is working with Indigenous communities to use sport as a tool that will bring us closer to reconciliation and effect positive social change. Sports offer great learning and development opportunities for everyone, including Indigenous communities.” Said Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for the Economic Development
“The Aboriginal Sport Circle (ASC) would like to congratulate the Provincial/Territorial Aboriginal Sport Bodies (PTASBs) on all the continued work being done in all regions to support and empower Indigenous sport, physical activity and recreation. The PTASBs have achieved great things in the face of daunting and challenging times and have remained committed to building stronger and healthier communities. “ Said Matt Tapper, Chief Executive Officer, Aboriginal Sport Circle
According to the Minister’s office, “Stream One and Two of the Sport for Social Development in Indigenous Communities component of the Sport Support Program focus on supporting improved health, education and employability and the reduction of at-risk behaviour. These are consistent with the priorities of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action 7, 19, and 38.”
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