Hi, you're receiving this email because you have expressed an interest in receiving information from SFNS. Don't forget to add us to your address book so we'll be sure to land in your inbox! | |
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Welcome to the February 2023 edition of the SFNS
bi-monthly eNewsletter!
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SFNS was previously in “Stage 1 – Prepare” of the Pandemic Policy. After a careful review of the current COVID-19 environment, a motion was passed to exit the Pandemic Policy effective January 26, 2023.
SFNS will continue to promote frequent hand washing and/or the use of hand sanitizer and maintaining/disinfecting office spaces. SFNS will also continue to stay informed regarding the COVID-19 environment and will consider taking the necessary steps to re-enter the Policy should it be deemed necessary to ensure the continued health and safety of the staff and our communities.
Contact information for SFNS staff can be found on our website. Please visit our staff directory for more details.
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REMINDER:
SFNS staff will be in observing the following statutory holidays/events:
Family Day
Monday, February 20, 2023
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Regular business hours will resume on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 (8:30am – 4:30pm). | |
Time spent with family is time well spent! | |
Welcome to the SFNS Team! | |
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Julie Armstrong, Asset Management Specialist
My name is Julie Armstrong. I reside in Oil Springs, Ontario which is a very small village between Petrolia, Dresden, and Strathroy. I recently started as the Asset Management Specialist in the Technical Services Department. Some of my duties include researching current construction standards, drafting preliminary designs, attending site meetings, and completing reports for construction projects. As I have only been in this role since December 2022, I still have many things to learn. When I'm not at work I spend my time baking, crocheting, or hanging out with my dogs. I love spending time with animals.
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A National Indian Residential School Crisis Line has been set up to provide support to former residential school students and those affected. You can access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-Hour National Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419.
For adults:
The IRSSS (Indian Residential School Survivors Society) Emergency Crisis Line is currently available 24/7 for those that may need counselling support from the recent announcement.
1-800-721-0066
For youth:
The Kids Help Phone has trained crisis responders and counselors are available by text and phone, 24/7, and a texter can request to speak to an Indigenous crisis responder. Call 1-800-668-6868 and text 686868
We Matter is an Indigenous youth-led and nationally registered organization dedicated to Indigenous youth support, hope and life promotion that has free downloadable resources on their website as well as links to other amazing resources. www.wemattercampaign.org
And locally, there are programs and supports through numerous community organizations including SOAHAC (Anishnaabe Ayaadziwin), Atlosha (Biigajiiskaan), CMHA Middlesex Mental Health & Addictions Centre and so many others that can be accessed by contacting them directly and requesting support. Please reach out if you need to.
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Chiefs of Ontario
This website provides information on emergency planning and preparedness, as well as on the unique programs and services that are available to First Nations in Ontario during times of emergency.
Click here to view website
Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians
COVID-19 Ontario updates on childcare and education (closures, camps, teachers, post-secondary)
Click here to view website
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For more information on the COVID-19 vaccine and resources please check out the Government of Canada website by clicking on this link. | |
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Technical Services Department provides assistance in the following areas:
- Housing Inspection - CMHC certified inspections through all phases of construction.
- Computer Aided Design - offer GIS and AutoCAD conceptual design services.
- Capital Project Assistance - assistance provided for projects that enhance critical infrastructure.
- Training - opportunities to increase capacity among First Nation staff.
- Reporting - assistance provided with annual reporting related housing and infrastructure.
If you have any questions please contact Tim Maness, Technical Services Manager (tmaness@sfns.on.ca).
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If you are interested in attending any of the virtual SET Skills Bank Information Sessions, please click the "Register" button below and complete the online form. | |
If you are ready to get started, click the button below to register for the skills bank. | |
Are you ready to start building your resume? | |
To get started, register as an employer by clicking the button and completing the online registration form. | |
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Capacity Connect is committed to delivering 1-hour quick hit webinars that focus on practical applications and real-life examples that are currently being utilized within First Nation Communities. Our webinars are open to ALL Ontario First Nations Finance Personnel, Band Managers, and Administration however, anyone is welcome to attend any of our webinars. | | | |
To register for any of the upcoming Capacity Connect Webinars, click here | |
To stay informed on Capacity Connect please consider joining the mailing list! | |
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FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES CURRENTLY OPEN:
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Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund
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The Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF) provides funding to projects that prepare for and adapt to the impacts of natural disasters; and/or reduce the risk of natural disasters and help communities become more resilient in the face of such events. Projects must expand, improve or build new public infrastructure that prevents, mitigates, and /or protects against the impact of climate change.
Projects must be a minimum of $1,000,000. The fund allocates at least $138 million to Indigenous applicants.
Applications will be accepted any time up to July 19, 2023 at 3:00pm EDT. You may submit more than one application.
The DMAF applications are accepted online through the INFC Applicant Portal. Applicants must register for an INFC Applicant Account. Applicants who are unable to apply through the INFC Applicant Portal are asked to reach out to the DMAF Team: dmaf-faac@infc.gc.ca.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a call with the DMAF Team to obtain clarity on program parameters or for help to navigate the application process, please contact: dmaf-faac@infc.gc.ca.
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Indigenous Business Advisory Program
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Indigenous Tourism Ontario offers one-on-one support services to Indigenous tourism businesses. This innovative training, coaching and mentoring model uses a relationship-focused approach where businesses receive support from one of our five Business Advisory team members who are experienced and passionate about rejuvenating the Indigenous Tourism economy in Ontario. With years of consulting experience in the areas of hospitality, tourism and business development, our IBAs are here to help our members with custom advisory services. | |
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Got a cool new tourism idea that you’re eager to launch? Apply now for the 2023 Skode Program and share the fire within your heart.
This year’s special edition Skode program will reward a $5,000 non-repayable financial contribution and 3 month mentorship to 3 winners from Northern Ontario and 3 winners from Southern Ontario. All 6 winners will then be invited to the in-person, province-wide pitch session on Wednesday, March 15 at the Little NHL Tournament in Mississauga to compete for the $20,000 grand prize.
Questions? Join us on Monday, February 6 at 5:00pm for an info session. We will be covering the program overview, eligibility, what we're looking for, how to apply, pitch tips and tricks, and FAQs. You are invited to ask questions during the Q&A period. You may also email us directly with any questions.
Applications are open till Monday, February 13, 2023 at 11:59pm.
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The Seniors Community Grant Program funds local, not-for-profit community groups and organizations to deliver projects, support and resources that help older adults (aged 55+) to live independently, live with safety and security, stay connected to their community, avoid isolation and achieve greater financial security and social connections. Programming can be delivered remotely, virtually, or in-person with proper health control measures in place.
Grants are available between $1,000 and $25,000 and can support up to 100% of the eligible costs. First Nations can apply for up to $25,000. Individuals representing small, unincorporated seniors’ groups can apply for a maximum of $10,000.
Applications will be accepted any time up to March 6, 2023 at 5:00pm EDT through the Transfer Payments Ontario (TPON) website.
Your Regional Development Advisor can be found at https://www.ontario.ca/page/regional-development-advisors
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For more information, click the button below to view the application guide. | |
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To learn more about Indigenous Transportation Initiatives Fund,
please click the button below.
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Fall term is long gone and winter term is in full swing. Hopefully, you are all settling into your new courses and routines. Campus visits have started again, and we hope to check in with most students at least once in person this term. We haven’t been to campus since before the pandemic and it’s great to see everyone again.
If you haven’t connected with the First Nation/Aboriginal/Indigenous centres within your school, please do. They offer a variety of services to support your academic goals and it’s a great place to meet other students.
Fall 2022 Grades are past due. If you haven’t uploaded them to the portal yet, please do. Grades must have your name and term listed.
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Important Deadlines:
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Applications for Spring/Summer intake are due on March 1st, 2023 - Contact your counsellor for assistance in applying for the spring/summer term.
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Applications for Fall intake are due on May 1st, 2023
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Tips for Mid-Terms & Finals
- Study in 15-20 minute intervals
- Alternate where you study
- Listen to non-lyrical music
- Drink cocoa
- Attend study groups
- Envision performing well on the exam
- Take a 20-minute break to exercise
- Set a time schedule for yourself
- Speak to your professors
- Make use of whiteboards, notecards, etc.
- Spend less time on what you know, and more on what is difficult
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To view the SFNS Post-Secondary Program Student Assistance Policy: | |
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Book receipts can be mailed to:
Southern First Nations Secretariat
Post-Secondary Department
22361 Austin Line
Bothwell, ON N0P 1C0
Electronic receipts can be forwarded to your Post-Secondary counsellor.
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Post-Secondary Funding Application Deadlines | | |
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SFNS Post-Secondary Funding
Deadlines: March 1st for Summer Session at 4:00 p.m.
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Indspire Post-Secondary Funding
Deadlines: August 1, November 1st, February 1st at 11:59pm EST.
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**Updated Counsellor List** | |
We are proud of your success as a student and would love to share your story in our eNewsletter! | |
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Youth Mental Health Supports
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Launched in 2013, Good2Talk is a free, confidential support service for post-secondary students in Ontario.
For many, post-secondary can be an exciting and, at times, stressful or overwhelming experience. Good2Talk can support students through a wide range of issues that may be impacting their mental health and well-being, including depression, anxiety, substance use, academic stress, personal or family relationships, loneliness, identity, financial concerns and other challenges.
By connecting with Good2Talk, post-secondary students can receive professional counselling, volunteer crisis support and information and referrals about mental health services and supports on and off campus.
No matter what you’re going through, Good2Talk is available 24/7. We’re Good2Talk whenever you need us!
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Why Boundaries Can Support Positive Mental Health
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Whether it’s writing an essay, studying for exams, commuting or planning for the future, post-secondary is a busy time. Setting boundaries can have many benefits to your emotional, spiritual and physical well-being, including increasing your self-awareness, improving communication and feeling more in control of your life. Boundaries are the rules and guidelines we set that dictate how we behave in relationships — including with ourselves. Here, Good2Talk shares tips for setting boundaries and practical phrases you can use to communicate them. | |
Ted Rogers Scholarship Fund for Indigenous Students
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The Ted Rogers Scholarship through Indspire is for Canadian Indigenous students entering their first year of a post-secondary program in the fall of 2023. It is a renewable award of $2,500 per year for students enrolled in a minimum two-year post-secondary program to a maximum of four years. While enrolled in post-secondary students must maintain a full-time course load to receive the renewed support each year. Students who attended post-secondary previous to the fall 2023 are not eligible.
Deadline to apply is March 1, 2023.
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ISETP offers seven programs to assist clients: | |
1. Indigenous Skills Training Option
To assist clients in obtaining, maintaining, or increasing their current skill levels through a variety of training courses offered by recognised and accredited training institutions.
2. Indigenous Employee Skills Enhancement
To provide an opportunity to those members who are employed to upgrade their skills, to maintain their existing positions or to advance within their company/ organization.
3. Indigenous Job Creation Partnership
To support job creation and on-the-job training projects that meet the needs of the employer. It provides work experience to unemployed persons by creating temporary jobs.
4. Indigenous Labour Force Promotion Option
To create an opportunity for clients to gain access into the labour market by providing them with on-the-job work experience with potential employers.
5. Indigenous Business Initiative Program
To allow participants to concentrate on developing a sustainable business by providing then with financial assistance while they receive business advice and support.
6. Indigenous Summer Student Employment
To provide aboriginal students the opportunity to gain career related skills and practical on-the-job work experience during their summer break.
7. Indigenous New Start Program
In order for clients to successfully enter or re-enter the labour market, they may access employment supports that are critical to seeking and attaining employment.
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For more information on the LDCC ISETP Department, please contact
Janice Noah , Director at ext. 222.
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Indigenous Youth From Across Canada Attend Clean Energy Conference in Whitehorse
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Young people from all over the country are in Whitehorse this week to take part in an Indigenous clean energy conference.
The youth participants, aged 18 to 30, are visiting the Yukon through a program called Generation Power, which offers career training for young people wanting to get involved in the clean energy field.
This year's participants have been taking part in online training courses that started in the fall. This is the first time the cohort has had the chance to meet in person.
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Bringing it Home: Oneida Accessible Drive Nears $1M Goal
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The team behind a grassroots effort to build accessible housing on Oneida Nation of the Thames hopes to hit its $1-million fundraising target after skyrocketing past its initial goal.
“The momentum continues,” said Mandi Fields of the Imagine Build partnership with the Oneida Nation band council and administration.
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“We’re close to $800,000 raised, with our initial goal being $350,000 for one home, so it’s pretty exciting,” she said. | |
Aamjiwnaang First Nation Hockey Player Among 8 Canadian Indigenous Stars Celebrated in Trading Cards
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Jason Simon of Sarnia, Ont., hopes it will inspire other Indigenous hockey players to keep going. He's a grown man with a long hockey career behind him but getting his own licensed NHL trading card left Jason Simon fighting back tears.
"You know, really, it's just a card, right? But for that little boy inside me, it meant so much," an emotional Simon told Afternoon Drive's Allison Devereaux on Wednesday. Simon, 53, is from Aamjiwnaang First Nation near Sarnia, Ont. He played for the NHL's Phoenix Coyotes (now Arizona Coyotes) and the New York Islanders in the 1990s.
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All First Nations Chiefs, Band Councils and First Nations Administrators are invited to attend the Strengthening Governance Workshop held at the Valhalla Hotel & Conference Centre in Thunder Bay, Ontario. This two-day conference will highlight best practices of First Nation Communities in Strengthening Governance and Leadership. There will be a panel discussion that will focus on the following topics: Leadership, Community Engagement, Management Selection, Other Entities, Personnel (Respectful Workplaces) and Finance. For more information on this workshop please visit www.nokiiwin.com.
*Please email Liisa Kearney to be added to the wait list for virtual attendance at executiveassistant@nokiiwin.com.
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To register for the Aspire Youth Summit 2023,
please click the "Register" button below:
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To complete the Chiefs of Ontario Non-Insured Health Benefits Patient Experience Survey, please click the "Participate" button below: | |
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This survey is for Chippewas of the Thames First Nation (COTTFN) youth (ages 15-30 years old). The purpose of this survey is to gain an understanding of COTTFN youth well-being, as well as how COTTFN can support youth well-being. COTTFN is conducting a separate survey for caretakers of COTTFN youth.
Click the "Participate" button below to complete the youth survey.
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Research Call for Proposals 2023 -2024 – January 6, 2023
The National Indigenous Fire Safety Council is asking for your ideas for research that you feel may be important. If you have some areas that you feel warrant a need for information or deeper analysis that might end in a research report or study, please submit your ideas to Len Garis, Director of Research at the National Indigenous Fire Safety Council by February 10, 2023 at Len.Garis@indigenousfiresafety.ca.
For more information, please click the button below:
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We hope you enjoyed this edition of the SFNS Newsletter! | |
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If you would like to submit something for the Newsletter
please email Communications Officer or call 1-800-668-2609
(All submissions are subject to approval)
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