How Friendship Centres are Preparing for a Possible Second Coronavirus Wave
Why It Matters
Friendship centres across Canada say they are supporting Indigenous people who have nowhere else to turn, as they face discrimination from mainstream service providers. Yet, the National Association of Friendship Centres says the government has not prioritized Indigenous voices, which is essential in planning how to build back better.
With a concerning upward trend of coronavirus cases in many parts of Canada, the National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC) is preparing to respond to increased needs over the coming months.
โI feel now we are at the calm before the next storm, but we donโt know what that storm will be like,โ says Jocelyn Formsma, executive director of the NAFC, a network of over 100 Friendship Centres and Provincial/Territorial Associations who have been supporting First Nations, Inuit, and Mรฉtis people in urban areas since the 1950s.ย
With coronavirus cases increasing in provinces including Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, and Aberta, experts are worried about a possible second wave of the virus this fall. As of Tuesday, Canada had 145,415 confirmed or presumptive coronavirus cases, with 125,534 of those reported as recovered or resolved.
Prime Minister Justin
Join a community of 2000+ impact-oriented professionals like you. Get full access to this story and all Future of Good content, including tickets to our digital events and networking, with a membership.
Already have an account? Sign in.
