May 9, 2024 | Ottawa, ON | Public Health Agency of Canada
Crisis and distress centers are an integral part of Canada’s public health approach to suicide prevention. They provide immediate support and resources when people need them most.
Today, as part of Mental Health Week, the Honorable Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, announced funding of more than $4.5 million dollars for 26 organizations that provide crisis line services to help them strengthen their capacity to meet the diverse needs of Canadians. These organizations are the latest round of recipients of the $8 million Distress Line Equity Fund, which aims to address gaps in equity, diversity and inclusion in the hotline sector. distress in Canada.
This initiative to improve equity, diversity and inclusion in our crisis line sector is an important complement to the 9-8-8: Suicide Helpline. Anyone in Canada can call or text 9-8-8 to access suicide prevention and distress support 24/7/365 emotional support that is bilingual, trauma-friendly and culturally appropriate.
Additionally, to further improve access to mental health supports for people deserving of equity, Budget 2024 proposes an additional $4 million over two years, starting in 2024-25, to support community initiatives through the Black Mental Health Fund. This fund aims to increase health equity and address mental health and its determinants for Black communities.
It is essential that all people in Canada have access to mental health resources when they need them most, regardless of their culture, social or economic status.
