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Canada's diverse landscape is home to many First Nation communities. Despite the availability of resources, these communities often face neglect in accessing vital financial support. The Financial Wellness in First Nations project is attempting to change this reality by bringing together non-profit organizations, community service centres, and Indigenous community organizations in a transformative partnership. This two-year project funded by IG Wealth Management aims to embed culturally appropriate financial wellness support in several First Nation communities.

“What if Canada Revenue Agency decides to freeze my bank account and seize all my assets because I haven’t filed my taxes for so long?” Roger nervously asked the Financial Empowerment and Problem Solving (FEPS) worker at Agincourt Community Service Association (ACSA) during his initial call seeking help with his back taxes. Staff could see Roger was extremely nervous about his situation and knew it would only be possible to help him if they took the time to listen and to understand his story and concerns.

Despite successfully accessing much needed benefits, systemic issues persist

An important aspect of financial empowerment work is ensuring people living on low income can access the benefits they are eligible for with ease. This can often be the “make or break” moment for many Canadians when they receive the much needed income. Small or large, the financial influx is often a relief for those who struggle financially. The value of accessing benefits cannot be understated and in the case of one EBO Financial Education Centre client, that experience has had an incredibly profound impact on her and her family’s life! 

Since October 2018, the Financial Empowerment Network of Nova Scotia (FENNS) has worked to raise the levels of financial empowerment and financial literacy across Nova Scotia. Representing a broad spectrum of public, private and non-profit sector groups, we bring together organizations working to increase financial understanding with organizations whose work is directly affected by that lack of understanding.