The government is launching call for proposals for urgent community support to help municipalities and First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities

October 11, 2024 | Ottawa, ON | Health Canada

No community has been left untouched by the toxic drug and overdose crisis. Its tragic impacts are felt among friends, families and neighbours. Too many Canadians have lost their lives to this public health crisis. Canada’s approach is focused on providing access to a full continuum of health care services and leveraging every tool at our disposal to save lives, connect people to care, and keep communities safe.

Today, the Honourable Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, announced the launch of the first call for proposals for Health Canada’s Emergency Treatment Fund (ETF). The fund will invest $150 million to help municipalities and First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities address their urgent needs and support rapid responses to the toxic drug use and overdose crisis.

The ETF will provide short-term support to rapidly mobilize and build capacity for enhanced access to trauma-informed, evidence-based substance use treatment, harm reduction and integrated services, such as naloxone distribution and drug checking equipment. The fund will work to be responsive and adaptive to allow communities to address their urgent needs in the way that best addresses their unique needs.

Applications will be accepted until November 08, 2024.

There is no one-size fits all approach to solving this crisis and no community can solve it alone. Our government is committed to doing everything we can with all partners and communities to save lives.