The coronavirus (COVID-19), which has been classified by the World Health Organization as a pandemic, has spread throughout much of our world. While the number of diagnosed cases in Canada compared with other countries is relatively low, the situation is evolving on a daily basis and even changing by the hour. The Federal and Provincial Governments, and medical advisors are asking all Canadians to take stronger measures to contain the spread of the virus.

We do not know what the future holds and the implications for all of us are serious and concerning. As Indigenous and Non-Indigenous partners, we are committed to working together to battle COVID-19 for the well-being of our communities.

To that end, please make a donation to HIP’s COVID-19 FUND!

HIP and its services are needed more today than ever. HIP’s COVID-19 Fund has been created to support requests for assistance from Indigenous Communities and Organizations. While all COVID-19 related requests will be considered, priority is being given to:

- FIGHTING DISEASE: HIP is connecting Indigenous Communities and organizations with the numerous Rotary Clubs & organizations who are producing Healthcare products. Funds are needed to pay for supplies to produce these products and deliver finished products to Indigenous communities & organizations.

- DISASTER RELIEF: HIP is in need of funding to support Indigenous food-banks and the distribution of food gift cards to relieve hunger today and prevent hunger tomorrow.

- SUPPORTING EDUCATION: While we were already aware of the shortage of laptops within Indigenous Schools, with schools now closed 1000’s of students are unable to continue their education from home because they do not have a laptop. Technology helps students learn skills that will help them be competitive with post-education applications and careers, it connects them to teachers and others during these times of isolation and provides a resource for the family to connect to healthcare services.

- SUPPORTING LOCAL ECONOMIES: Transportation is limited and costly, especially to isolated northern First Nation communities. A single pallet of merchandise can require multiple trucking and airline or rail vendors. HIP requires funds to deliver essential supplies. Although the transportation vendors have been extremely generous, ongoing waiving of shipping costs is not sustainable. It is critical that the transportation vendors are supported in their growth to ensure their long-term survival. Without these transportation vendors, poverty conditions would worsen for isolated communities.