The 2024 Path Forward Community Fund is now open for submissions, aiming to empower Indigenous communities across Canada. Managed by the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres (BCAAFC), this initiative focuses on enhancing safety planning and addressing gender-based violence through community-driven projects.
Key Takeaways
- Deadline for Applications: November 8, 2024
- Funding Amounts: Up to $150,000 for 18-month projects; up to $200,000 for 24-month projects.
- Eligibility: Open to various Indigenous organizations and communities in British Columbia.
Overview of the Fund
The Path Forward Community Fund is designed to support the self-determination of safety planning in Indigenous communities. It aims to tackle systemic, Indigenous-specific causes of gender-based violence by fostering capacity-building and community planning initiatives. The fund will be guided by an adjudication committee composed of diverse Indigenous Peoples, ensuring that the perspectives of various community members are represented.
Funding Information
Eligible projects can receive significant financial support, with the following funding structures:
- 18-Month Projects: Up to $150,000
- 24-Month Projects: Up to $200,000
Eligible Activities
The Path Forward funds can be utilized for a variety of activities, including but not limited to:
- Building capacity within communities
- Hosting engagement and facilitation sessions
- Developing crisis response plans
- Creating materials for communication strategies
- Sharing information and tools to navigate justice and public safety systems
- Supporting Indigenous individuals with disabilities facing gender-based violence
- Providing culturally appropriate safety training
- Offering cultural support and healing initiatives
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for funding, applicants must be part of one of the following categories:
- Indigenous organizations
- First Nations, Bands, and/or Tribal Councils
- Treaty First Nation Governments
- Métis Chartered Communities
- Métis organizations or service providers
- Urban or off-reserve Indigenous organizations/communities
Conclusion
The 2024 Path Forward Community Fund represents a significant opportunity for Indigenous communities in Canada to address pressing issues related to safety and gender-based violence. By empowering these communities through funding and support, the initiative aims to foster resilience and self-determination, ultimately leading to safer and more equitable environments for all Indigenous peoples.
