Friday February 10, 2023 | LANGFORD, BC
by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
Outgoing NDP MLA John Horgan (Langford-Juan de Fuca) says funding for a local Indigenous organization will support the group’s economic and organizational resilience so they can continue their meaningful work for people and families in the community.
The announcement was made quietly by email on February 3.
Stepping down after 18 years:
Yesterday in the BC Legislative Assembly John Horgan gave his farewell speech, as he will be stepping down as MLA and wrapping up his career in elected politics by the end of March 2023. He announced his pending departure as Premier back in June 2022
The long-time Langford-Juan de Fuca MLA said that he wants to finish up with some constituency work.
Advancing reconciliation:
“We’re working to advance meaningful reconciliation, and supporting local Indigenous organizations who are partners in this work,” said Horgan. “As part of that ongoing commitment, this funding will supporting grassroots reconciliation work.”
In Langford, one organization will receive a grant, that being Hulitan Family and Community Services. The amount will be $216,000 over three years.
The Hulitan Family and Community Services organization is located at 104-731 Station Ave in central Langford.
Total $5 million province-wide:
As part of the Indigenous Resilience and Recovery Grant Initiative, 23 non-profit organizations are each receiving a share of nearly $5 million in total funding.
The initiative is being administered in partnership with the Vancouver Foundation, United Way BC, and New Relationship Trust.
The funding is part of the $34-million Recovery and Resiliency Fund that was announced in March 2022 with $30 million from the Province and $4 million from Vancouver Foundation.
Part of pandemic recovery:
Throughout the pandemic and recovery, Indigenous non-profit organizations have faced challenges and increased demand for their programs and services. This funding will help address gaps in their operations so they can continue their work.