The Ministry of Health/Community Support Services have agreed to a contract with the Chiefs of Ontario to identify the need to obtain the resources to expand First Nations Community Support Services.

The Chiefs of Ontario have contracted a Consultant, Aboriginal Research Institute, to deliver an environmental scan with all First Nations that deliver Home Support in their communities.

This environmental scan will be sent to all First Nations within the next two (2) weeks and must be filled out by the First Nations and returned to the Chiefs of Ontario within the timeline indicated on the environmental scan. As well, there will be two (2) focus groups; one in the North and one in the South. Each First Nation will be notified as to when and where these focus groups will take place.

Funding is limited to Community Support Services and is for adults only and excludes services such as Supportive Housing and Long-Term Care Homes. These services play a critical role as complements to in-home and other formal services and to the assistance provided by family and friends.

There is a very short turnaround time and your attention to the requests made by Aboriginal Research Institute and the Chiefs of Ontario will be most appreciated.

Monthly reports will be issued as to the status of this project.