New Mental Health Fund Launched to Support the Canadian Arctic
A major new investment has been launched to strengthen community-based mental health services across the Canadian Arctic, honoring the legacy
A major new investment has been launched to strengthen community-based mental health services across the Canadian Arctic, honoring the legacy of Governor General Mary Simon.
Named Ajuinnata: The Mary Simon Catalyst for Mental Wellness, the initiative will focus initially on Inuit Nunangat before expanding its support network across the North.
The program aims to build a stronger ecosystem of peer-led, culturally relevant services rooted in local knowledge and relationships.
To kickstart the initiative, the Government of Canada is investing an initial $5 million, with a commitment of up to an additional $10 million in matching funds alongside philanthropic support raised by the Rideau Hall Foundation (RHF).
The creation of Ajuinnata stems directly from findings gathered during the Governor General’s Mental Health Learning and Listening Tour, which began in 2024.
Conversations with community leaders and practitioners highlighted a critical gap: northern, rural, and remote communities face severe resource shortages and require mental health services tailored to their distinct cultural realities.
“Healing flourishes through connection and culture,” said Governor General Mary Simon. “That is why this program will focus on supporting community-based mental health counsellors with lived experience—individuals who, with the right training and adequate financial support, can make a meaningful difference. It is one of the most effective ways we can help build a strong and vibrant Canadian North for the future.”
By training and funding local community members, the fund seeks to create a sustainable, long-term network of support that does not rely solely on fly-in healthcare professionals.
“Our government is honouring her legacy by helping establish Ajuinnata,” stated Prime Minister Mark Carney. “We are proud to carry on the work to which she dedicated her life, and which is close to her heart.”
The Rideau Hall Foundation, a nonpartisan national charitable organization, will oversee the philanthropic fundraising and is currently inviting partners from the private sector and civil society to expand the fund’s reach across the North.
Canada: GG Mary Simon, ITK’s Natan Obed among Canadians at Arctic Frontiers, Eye on the Arctic, Eye on the Arctic
Denmark: Denmark, Greenland leaders meet Merz, heading to Paris to shore up support, Reuters
Finland: Greenland clash left a mark on EU-US relations says Finnish PM, Yle News
Greenland: New Italy Arctic policy adds U.S. Greenland ambitions to growing Arctic competition narrative, Eye on the Arctic
Iceland: NATO chief to Arctic Allies: “We’re all frontline states now,” as Iceland’s role grows, Eye on the Arctic
Norway: “We want to be Europe’s most integrated region in terms of defence”, The Independent Barents Observer
