(Men of The North/Facebook)

By Derek Cornet

funding

Men of the North requests amendment to Community Grant Policy

Feb 9, 2024 | 2:17 PM

Men of the North is asking La Ronge council to amend its Community Grant Policy.

That’s according to documents submitted by the non-profit ahead of next week’s (Feb. 13) regular council meeting.

The group is proposing that the town changes the policy to include specific provisions for supporting mental health initiatives with a focus on prevention, recovery and rehabilitation programs and services.

“Men of the North Inc., a pioneering mental health program launched in 2020, has demonstrated significant impact in addressing the mental health needs of men in Saskatchewan, particularly in rural and isolated area,” the document noted.

“By integrating support for such initiatives into the town’s policy framework, we aim to enhance the well-being of our community, aligning with both the town’s vision and the mission of Men of the North Inc.”

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Specifically, Men of the North would like to see amendments which include an expansion to the eligibility criteria, funding allocation priorities and application process adaptation. Eligibility should be expanded to explicitly include mental health initiatives targeting men, women and children of all ages, as well as recognize the unique challenges they face and the lack of accessible and culturally sensitive support services.

The document adds a portion of the $42,000 allocated yearly for community grants should be specifically for mental health initiatives with an emphasis on programs that aim to reduce mental health stigma and promote an open dialogue.

“Integrating support for mental health initiatives into the Town of La Ronge’s Community Grant Policy represents a strategic alignment with the town’s vision and mission,” the document stated.

“It acknowledges the importance of mental health in achieving a vibrant, healthy community and leverages the proven success and values of Men of the North Inc. to address this critical need. The policy change is a step towards realizing our shared vision of a community where every individual has access to the support they need to thrive.”

Currently, the eligibility for community grants includes community programs and events, charitable events, start-up funding for an organization, group or event, and any other activity or project deemed eligible by council.

Eligibility is not offered to applicants in debt with the town, those with political affiliations, initiatives that are already started or completed, ongoing activities and programs, operational and administrative subsidies, for-profit events or applicants who plan on granting any of the funds to another organization, group or cause.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com