Mary Simon's $5M mental health initiative targets Northern and Indigenous gaps

Outgoing Governor General Mary Simon has launched a new project to improve mental health services in Northern and Indigenous communities. The initiative, backed by the federal government, aims to address long-standing gaps in care across remote regions.

Simon, who was born and raised in the Arctic, has made the North a central focus of her work. She described the shortage of mental health support there as severe and urgent. The project will fund community-based mental health programmes, with the Rideau Hall Foundation overseeing its delivery. In 2024, Simon began a mental health learning and listening tour to better understand local needs.

The federal government has committed $5 million to kickstart the effort. An additional $10 million will be added if the foundation matches the funds raised. Prime Minister Mark Carney noted that Simon has consistently highlighted the struggles of rural, Northern, and remote communities during her time in office.

Her legacy project builds on years of advocacy for better resources in underserved areas. The goal is to create sustainable, locally led solutions for mental health challenges. The initiative will provide direct support to communities facing critical shortages in mental health care. With government funding and foundation partnerships, the project is set to expand access to services in the North. Simon’s work ensures her focus on Indigenous and remote regions continues beyond her term.