The federal government will invest $500 million to create a new fund to support community health organizations that provide mental health care to young people.
Federal Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland made the announcement Tuesday morning alongside other ministers in Ottawa, including Mental Health and Addictions Minister Ya'ara Saks.
“Many Canadians are currently facing stress and anxiety due to war, geopolitical unrest, climate change and financial difficulties,” said Minister Saks. In this context, young people often do not have the tools they need to navigate these spaces.”
During the 2021 election campaign, the Liberals promised a similar fund for post-secondary institutions to support student mental health. It was unclear Tuesday whether the new Youth Mental Health Fund would meet that obligation.
Minister Saks said the government chose to fund community organizations to take a broader approach because not all young people attend post-secondary institutions.
This fund is the latest in a series of pre-budget announcements by the Liberal government that resemble an election campaign.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the budget will focus on young people, particularly helping them become homeowners or rent affordable housing.
Minister Freeland is expected to present the federal budget next Tuesday.
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