NUNATSIAQ NEWS: Qikiqtani Inuit Association rolls out pandemic support plan
The Qikiqtani Inuit Association says it will start distributing more than $6 million in federal money to help support its members during the COVID-19 pandemic, with food vouchers for elders, money for hunters, and increased support for children and families.
“We need to ensure that our elders have the food and basic supplies that they need, that our children are supported, and that no Qikiqtani Inuit are left hungry in these unpredictable times,” said QIA President P.J. Akeeagok in a March 30 news release.
The funds for QIA’s COVID-19 response plan flow from the Indigenous Community Support Fund announced by the federal government on March 25.
The QIA’s share is $6,132,544.
QIA plans to spend $3 million of that money to lessen the impact of the pandemic on elders.
Elders over 60 will receive $250 vouchers every other week, which can be exchanged at local Arctic Co-operatives Ltd. stores.
To help hunters harvest country food, the QIA said it will offer harvesters who have established camps or cabins more than $2 million in short-term financial assistance to go out on the land.
Priority will be given to Inuit who will spend 14 days or more on the land, the QIA said. They must supply their own transportation.
QIA has also set up a contingency fund to address any other needs associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.
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