The Saskatchewan government is providing $250,000 in grants to support community-led suicide prevention programs across the province as part of its Pillars for Life suicide prevention plan.
The Suicide Prevention Grant Program will fund at least 25 grants of up to $10,000 each, targeting initiatives that develop leadership, reduce suicide risks, increase resource awareness, reduce stigma, and promote healthy lifestyles.
"The tragic loss of a person by suicide is felt by family members, friends, and the entire community," said Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr.
"Addressing self-harm and suicide is a priority for our government. Providing these grants is an important way to work with partners to support the mental health of our residents across the province."
Community-based organizations, Indigenous organizations, school divisions, and municipalities are eligible to apply for funding through the program.
The announcement coincides with September 10th being recognized as Suicide Prevention Day, which promotes understanding about suicide, removes stigma connected to mental illness, encourages help-seeking, and provides support for those affected by suicide attempts or loss.
The grant program operates under the 2020 Pillars for Life: The Saskatchewan Suicide Prevention Plan, which guides government and partner efforts to improve and expand suicide prevention across the province.
Current provincial suicide prevention initiatives include funding the community-led Roots of Hope Suicide Prevention initiative in five northern Saskatchewan communities and supporting a provincial rapid access suicide loss support program through Family Service Saskatchewan.
The province also funds family engagement groups to gather feedback from families who have experienced suicide loss, supports public awareness campaigns about available help, and promotes the national Suicide Crisis Helpline at 9-8-8.
Saskatchewan is investing $624 million in mental health and addictions this year, including $2.25 million specifically designated for suicide prevention initiatives. The grant program encourages creative approaches to suicide prevention, recognizing that community-based solutions can effectively address local needs and circumstances.
Applications and program information are available at Saskatchewan.ca/suicide-prevention-grant, while resources on suicide prevention and mental health can be found at Saskatchewan.ca/suicide-prevention.
For immediate support, the national Suicide Crisis Helpline is available 24/7 at 9-8-8.