Manitoba Government Press Release–The Manitoba government is investing more than $767,000 through the From the Ground Up – Safe Healthy Communities for ALL program in community development projects that support women and gender-diverse Manitobans overcoming gender-based violence, Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glen Simard and Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine, minister responsible for women and gender equity, announced today.
“Strong communities are built when everyone feels safe, supported and valued,” said Simard. “By investing in these projects, we are empowering local organizations to create spaces and programs that help women and gender-diverse Manitobans heal, rebuild and thrive. This is about more than funding. It is about standing together against gender-based violence and ensuring every Manitoban has the opportunity to live with dignity and hope.”
The program provides grants up to $100,000 for community renewal initiatives and community spaces and up to $50,000 for projects under the children and youth stream. This year, the program is investing more than $767,000 in 2025-26 for nine projects that support women and gender-diverse Manitobans.
Approved grants will support initiatives such as violence intervention programming, safe space improvements, development of systems navigation tools, training and mentorship programs with elder leadership, emergency clothing, in-house healthcare provided by Indigenous physicians and nurses and referrals to EIA, housing, mental health and substance use support programs.
“Ka Ni Kanichihk is a vital community resource that supports women, gender-diverse people and families through learning and healing grounded in traditional Indigenous knowledge and trauma-informed practice,” said Fontaine. “This investment will support critical renovations so Velma’s House can continue to be a welcoming space where people are supported to heal, restore balance and live with dignity and strength.”
Ka Ni Kanichihk Inc. is receiving a $100,000 grant for the Velma’s House Renovations project. The funding will support upgrades to Velma’s House, a 24-7 safe space that provides safety, comfort and connection to women experiencing violence, exploitation or homelessness.
“Ka Ni Kanichihk is honoured to have been chosen as one of the projects to receive funding for Velma’s House Renovations,” said Jackie Anderson, executive director, Ka Ni Kanichihk Inc. “The demand to support women and gender-diverse relatives who are dealing with or overcoming gender-based violence is becoming greater every day and has become far too common. This project will open up more opportunities to meet the needs of providing a safe space, resources and mentorship for our relatives. Velma’s House provides a place of safety and healing allowing us to provide a warm bed, clothing, showers and a hot meal wrapped in care and kindness. The Manitoba government’s continued support and partnership in community make a difference in the lives of our relatives. In times like this, it really does take a village to make a difference.”
Launched in 2024, From the Ground Up – Safe Healthy Communities for ALL focuses on community-led response and revitalization efforts, including capacity building, wellness and safety, economic development, social inclusion, housing co-ordination and youth initiatives. In 2025-26, the program has committed more than $12 million to support 208 community development projects across Manitoba.
To learn more about the From the Ground Up – Safe Healthy Communities for ALL program, visit https://gov.mb.ca/grants/.