The federal government will invest $500 million to create a new fund to support community health organizations that provide mental health care to young people.
Federal Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland made the announcement Tuesday morning in Ottawa alongside other ministers, including Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.
“Many Canadians are currently facing stress and anxiety due to war, geopolitical unrest, climate change and financial hardship,” said Minister Saks. In this context, young people often do not have the tools they need to navigate these spaces.”
During the 2021 election campaign, the Liberals promised a similar fund for post-secondary institutions to help with student mental health. It was unclear Tuesday whether the new Youth Mental Health Fund was intended to deliver on that commitment.
Minister Saks said the government chose to fund community organizations to take a broader approach, given that not all young people attend post-secondary campuses.
This fund constitutes the latest in a series of pre-budget announcements from the Liberal government, resembling an election campaign.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the budget will focus on young people, particularly to help them become homeowners or rent affordable housing.
Minister Freeland is expected to present the federal budget next Tuesday.
To watch on video