Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visiting the Cree Nation James Smith on Monday announced $ 62.5 million in aid over six years for the Saskatchewan First Nation, shaken by a massacre that left 11 dead and 18 injured in early September.
The federal government hopes in this way “to support members of the community who must cope with the loss and trauma caused by this tragic and senseless violence”, according to a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office.
Of these funds released, $42.5 million will be used to promote healing and well-being with the construction of a new wellness center in the community as well as the redevelopment of the Sakwatamo pavilion.
The remainder of the funding spread over four years, or $20 million, will be used to support the Cree Nation and other communities to be developed to implement local safety and well-being projects.
Ottawa believes that with this assistance, the James Smith Cree Nation will be able to develop programs that better meet the needs of its members, including improving access to mental health, trauma and addictions services.
“Better access to mental health and addictions care will help create a safer and healthier community. To the people of the James Smith Cree Nation: Government will be your partner every step of the way in the healing process,” said Justin Trudeau.
“We thank Prime Minister Trudeau and his government for responding promptly to our emergency health services needs immediately after the incident, which helped us during this extremely turbulent time,” Chief Wally Burns said. .