Bell Let’s Talk announced Wednesday $1 million in new grants from the Bell Let’s Talk Diversity Fund to support 10 additional organizations providing mental health programs that support members of Black, Indigenous and people of colour (BIPOC) communities across Canada.
The Bell Let’s Talk Diversity Fund awards grants of up to $100,000 to organizations working to reduce the stigma of mental illness and increase access to culturally informed mental health support for BIPOC communities. Since the launch of the fund in 2020, 49 organizations from across the country have received grants, totalling $5.45 million, according to a press release.
The newest grant recipients are Café-Jeunesse Multiculturel, Centre de justice des premiers peuples de Montréal (First Peoples Justice Center of Montréal), Eva’s Initiatives for Homeless Youth, Fort Smith Métis Council, Hong Fook Mental Health Association, Mashkiwizii Manido Foundation, Réseau d’intervention auprès des personnes ayant subi la violence organisée (RIVO), Sagkeeng Child and Family Services Inc., Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq, and Wolastoqey Tribal Council Inc.
“We are excited to announce our latest Bell Let’s Talk Diversity Fund recipients,” said Mary Deacon, chair of Bell Let’s Talk, in the release. “These exceptional organizations are providing essential supports and services in many diverse communities across Canada. The grants will help the organizations make a difference and create real change for people struggling with mental health issues.”
The Diversity Fund recipient announcement comes a week before Bell Let’s Talk Day, taking place Jan. 24. With the theme “Let’s create real change,” the Bell Let’s Talk campaign this year is asking all Canadians to show their support for mental health and take meaningful action to create change in their homes, schools, workplaces and communities.
Photo of Mashkiwizii Manido Foundation’s opening courtesy of Bell Let’s Talk.
