The Government of Canada is committed to supporting First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities in building strong and healthy communities across the country.
Recognizing the transformative power of sport in achieving this goal, the Honourable Terry Duguid, Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, today announced the 2024-2026 funding recipients for the Sport for Social Development in Indigenous Communities (SSDIC) program, with a focus on projects in Winnipeg.
In Winnipeg, approximately $1.5 million will be invested in eight Indigenous-led projects aimed at expanding access to sport and physical activity. These initiatives will prioritize culturally relevant and community-designed programming to empower Indigenous people, including youth, women, girls, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals and persons with disabilities.
This announcement follows Minister Duguid's visit to the Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre. Minister Duguid highlighted the Centre's Sacred Connections program, which provides a safe and welcoming space for Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals to connect with their culture through traditional sport and physical activities. The program is one example of how SSDIC funding is directly impacting communities in Winnipeg.
The SSDIC program prioritizes culturally relevant sport and physical activity opportunities, making sure that projects are designed and led by Indigenous communities and organizations. This approach empowers communities to address their unique barriers to participation in sport and develop programs that best suit their unique needs.
Since 2019, the SSDIC program, in collaboration with Indigenous-led organizations and governments, has benefited hundreds of communities across Canada.
