The Saskatchewan government is providing $250,000 in grants to support community-based suicide prevention initiatives across the province.
The funding, part of Pillars for Life: The Saskatchewan Suicide Prevention Plan, is aimed at encouraging creative approaches to suicide prevention, including leadership development, risk reduction, increasing awareness of available resources, reducing stigma, and promoting healthy lifestyles.
At least 25 grants will be awarded, with each receiving up to $10,000. Applications are open to community organizations, Indigenous groups, school divisions, and municipalities.
“The tragic loss of a person by suicide is felt by family members, friends, and the entire community,” Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr said. “Providing these grants is an important way to work with partners to support the mental health of our residents across the province.”
The government also highlighted other provincial suicide prevention efforts, including the community-led Roots of Hope initiative in five northern communities, a rapid-access support program for families and friends of suicide victims through Family Service Saskatchewan, public awareness campaigns, and promotion of the national Suicide Crisis Helpline at 9-8-8.
This year, Saskatchewan is investing a record $624 million in mental health and addictions services, including $2.25 million specifically for suicide prevention initiatives.
For more information on applying for a Suicide Prevention Grant, visit: Saskatchewan.ca/suicide-prevention-grant. Information on mental health and suicide prevention resources is available at Saskatchewan.ca/suicide-prevention.