Applications open for Saskatchewan’s MMIWG+ community fund

Projects that will help prevent violence and improve safety for Indigenous woman, girls and two-spirit people are now eligible for funding.

The provincial government opened applications on Thursday for its Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls+ Community Response Fund, which makes $800,000 available for grassroots projects.

Organizers can apply for up to $40,000 in funding for each dedicated project, ahead of the deadline on May 31.

“The creation of the MMIWG+ Community Response Fund is a significant step toward reconciliation in Saskatchewan, aiming to address the issues outlined in the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls,” the provincial government explained in a statement.

Half of the $800,000 was provided by Women and Gender Equity Canada, and 23 projects received funding last year.

“This funding supports important grassroots efforts and organizations in preventing violence and promoting safety that create tangible solutions and a safer future for all,” Don McMorris, Saskatchewan’s minister responsible for First Nations, Métis and northern affairs, said in a statement.

The government said the grant program is open to grassroots and non-profit Indigenous organizations, non-profits and municipalities “seeking authentic partnerships with Indigenous communities” and non-Indigenous non-profit groups “whose primary programs/service benefit First Nations or Métis clientele.”

More information on eligibility and previously funded projects can be found on the government’s website.