The BC government says a funding boost will mean better services for urban Indigenous communities.
Indigenous relations minister Scott Fraser has announced an additional $6.45 million for BC’s 25 Aboriginal friendship centres, more than tripling their funding.
The money also includes $100,000 more per year for operations of the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres.
The centres provide services to 78% of Indigenous peoples who live off-reserve and in urban settings, including health care, employment, skills training and education, as well as supports for children and families, Elders and youth.
Vancouver-Mount Pleasant MLA Melanie Mark says Indigenous peoples living in urban areas have been left when it comes to discussions about the needs of Indigenous communities,
Approximately 50% of B.C. First Nations members live away from home communities.
