The National Association of Friendship Centres Calls for Investment in Friendship Centres

Press Release

OTTAWA, ON – The National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC) is urging the federal government to invest in long-term, sustainable funding for Friendship Centres across the country.

With federal Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples (UPIP) funding set to expire in 2026, the NAFC is seeking long term funding of $65 million annually starting in 2026 to support the crucial work of Friendship Centres in urban Indigenous communities.

“For more than 50 years, Friendship Centres have stepped up where other systems have fallen short,” said Jocelyn W. Formsma, Chief Executive Officer of the NAFC. “The Friendship Centre Movement is at a crucial time. With a new government in place, we must ensure decision-makers understand the vital role we play—and that we’re ready to be a partner in delivering positive outcomes for urban Indigenous people across the country.”

Friendship Centres provide culturally grounded programs and services that meet the evolving needs of a young, urban, and growing Indigenous population. From healthcare and housing to education and cultural programming, Friendship Centres are safe, accessible spaces offering essential support where it’s needed most.

Current funding through UPIP provides $32 million annually to the NAFC and its members, but this amount no longer reflects the reality of rising costs due to inflation, population growth, and the increasing demand for services. The campaign highlights the urgency for multi-year long-term investment to ensure Friendship Centres can continue to deliver life-changing—and often life-saving—support for generations to come.

Supporting the NAFC’s multi-year long-term funding needs is an investment in meaningful, lasting change. Indigenous youth, families, and elders rely on their local Friendship Centres not only for basic needs like food security and shelter, but also for a sense of belonging, community, and opportunity.

Because sometimes, all someone needs is a little help from their Friendship Centre.

To learn more and support the campaign, visit: https://nafc.ca/support-the-fcm

FOR MEDIA INQUIRES:

John Paillé

Senior Communications Coordinator

jpaille@nafc.ca

IBF5