Western Region Two is working assist citizens amid the COVID-19 outbreak. (Michael Joel-Hansen/paNOW Staff)

By Michael Joel-Hansen

COVID aid

Métis Nation getting lots of calls for help

Apr 7, 2020 | 5:47 PM

The phones have been ringing steady at the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan Western Region Two offices in Prince Albert.

The organization was given over $100,000 by the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan (MN-S) to give out to members. The funding is to assist members with childcare, housing, and general expenses.

Sherry McLennan, director for Western Region Two said the organization covers a large area, which includes the City of P.A. and encompasses a large number of Métis people. She explained a three-person committee was created to distribute the funds.

“We want to ensure that we try and help as many people as we can,” she said.

McLennan said people looking to get assistance will be asked to fill out a form asking them to provide information about their family composition and how much their income has been affected by the current crisis. She added they are especially trying to help elders and people with young families.

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“We want to just help with a little bit, maybe to buy cleaning supplies, to buy some extra groceries,” she said.

Applications are being taken by phone. Members of local seven are asked to call 306-930-9115, local 269 members are asked to call 306-961-2296 and 109 members can call 306-941-1044. People looking for assistance related to housing are asked to call 306-221-4035.

McLennan said this week the committee will be approving applications and will be calling people to come pick up cheques Thursday. People will be asked to come over the course of the day to ensure not too many people show up at once. Members are being asked to bring their own pens.

“It’s going to be a drive thru process kind of deal,” McLennan said.

McLennan said so far they have given out $25,000 and she said they will continue to accept applications until they have distributed all the money. She added they understand it is a scary time and are looking to do all they can.

“It’s an emergency situation time. We’re all in the same boat, we’re all struggling. A lot of us don’t have jobs anymore, a lot of don’t have money coming in and I know it’s scary times,” she said.

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MichaelJoel.Hansen@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @mjhskcdn