The Nunatsiavut Government today announced a number of initiatives aimed at assisting Beneficiaries of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement deal with impacts associated with the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.
The initiatives include providing support to food banks and community freezers (including those operated by the Sivunivut Inuit Community Corporation in North West River and the NunaKatiget Inuit Community Corporation in Happy Valley-Goose Bay/Mud Lake), and cleaning supplies and activity and games packages for children and families.
Funding is also being set aside for mental health initiatives, harvesting and home-heating programs.
“The initiatives announced today will enable us to provide much-needed supports to Beneficiaries during these difficult and uncertain times,” says Nunatsiavut President Johannes Lampe.
“While some of these programs will be put in place immediately, others will be rolled out once eligibility criteria has been developed. I want to assure Beneficiaries that the Nunatsiavut Government is working hard to protect their health, security and wellbeing.”
SUPPORT INITIATIVES
• Food Support Program: Financial assistance will be provided to support community food banks and freezer programs, including those operated by the Sivunivut and NunaKatiget Inuit community corporations. The funds will be used to purchase food for delivery to elders, families and individuals in need. Other food security initiatives, including access to traditional country foods, are being explored.
• Cleaning Supplies: Arrangements are being made to immediately provide a variety of household cleaners, disinfecting wipes, soap, etc. to families and individuals.
• Activity and Games: The Department of Health and Social Development will provide packages of coloring books and crayons, and a variety of games, etc. to Inuit children and families. Focus will initially be placed on those that access services from Family Connections, with plans to expand the program to others.
• Mental Health: Support packages, including items such as puzzles, games, etc. will be provided to promote mental wellness during self-isolation. Measures will also be implemented to enable individuals to connect directly with mental health workers.
• Home Heating: A program is being developed to ensure wood and fuel is provided to those in need.
“The Nunatsiavut Government will continue to explore ways to try and lessen the impacts of COVID-19 on our people and our communities,” says President Lampe. “We ask for cooperation and patience as we implement these initiatives in the days and weeks ahead.”