The federal government reaffirmed its dedication to supporting First Nations, Inuit, and Metis communities on Monday. Secretary of Sport Adam van Koeverden disclosed the recipients of funding for the Sport for Social Development in Indigenous Communities program for 2026-2028. This initiative, with an investment of $22.8 million, will facilitate Indigenous-led projects to enhance access to sports and physical activities in communities nationwide.
Van Koeverden emphasized the unifying power of sports in bringing communities together and promoting physical and mental well-being. The aim of the investment is to enable Indigenous-led organizations to broaden access to culturally relevant sports and physical activities for First Nations, Inuit, and Metis individuals.
The projects under this program will prioritize culturally appropriate and community-designed programs to empower Indigenous people, including youth, women, girls, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, and persons with disabilities. Van Koeverden highlighted that these initiatives are instrumental in dismantling barriers to participation and fostering environments where Indigenous individuals of all ages and abilities can flourish.
Since 2019, the Sport for Social Development in Indigenous Communities program, in collaboration with Indigenous-led organizations and governments, has benefitted numerous communities nationwide. In Edmonton, over $1.2 million will be allocated to three Indigenous-led projects aimed at expanding access to sports and physical activities.
Shannon Dunfield, chair of the Indigenous Sport Council of Alberta (ISCA), emphasized the significance of SSDIC funding in addressing challenges such as staffing capacity, travel constraints, and increasing demand in rural and remote communities. The funding enables meaningful and impactful responses to the needs of Indigenous communities.
The program comprises three funding streams:
– Stream 1: Distributing $10.6 million to 12 Provincial/Territorial Aboriginal Sport Bodies (PTASP) and the Aboriginal Sport Circle for developing sports community programs.
– Stream 2: Allocating $7.2 million over a three-year cycle to Indigenous governments, communities, and non-profit Indigenous organizations for projects promoting sports and recreation.
– Stream 3: Focusing on social development goals related to physical and mental health, suicide prevention, sexual trafficking awareness, safe relationships, and sexual positivity (2SLGBTQI+).
These efforts aim to enhance the well-being and opportunities for Indigenous communities across Canada.