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BEREAVEMENT FUND
Welcome to the Mississauga First Nation Bereavement Fund page. In our community, we understand the profound impact of losing a loved one. During these challenging times, the Bereavement Fund is here to provide financial assistance and support to the families of our deceased band members. This fund is a testament to our commitment to care for one another in moments of need, ensuring that the costs associated with funerals and burials do not add to the emotional burden of loss. On this page, you will find detailed information about the fund's purpose, eligibility criteria, application process, and the types of expenses covered. Our aim is to offer a helping hand to ease the financial pressures during these solemn times, reflecting our enduring spirit of community and togetherness.
The Bereavement Fund is more than a financial resource; it is a symbol of our collective strength and unity. We encourage those in need to reach out, as we are here to support you every step of the way. In honoring the memories of those we have lost, we continue to foster the bonds of kinship and community that define us. May we find comfort in knowing that even in the darkest moments, we are never alone.
legal and financial planning resources
Government of Ontario - "What to do when someone dies": This resource provides comprehensive information on the steps to take following a death, including how to handle the deceased's estate and financial affairs. Website: Ontario.ca - What to do when someone dies Law Society of Ontario - Lawyer Referral Service: This service can connect individuals with lawyers who can provide legal advice on estate planning, wills, and other related matters. Website: Law Society of Ontario - Lawyer Referral Service Canada Revenue Agency - What to Do Following a Death: Offers guidance on managing financial matters after a death, including how to deal with bank accounts, debts, and investments of the deceased. Website: CRA - What to Do Following a Death Canadian Bar Association - Wills, Estates, and Trusts: Provides information on wills, how to manage estates, and the role of trusts in estate planning. Website: Canadian Bar Association - Wills, Estates, and Trusts Estate Planning Guide by CPA Canada: A comprehensive guide to estate planning, including how to create a will, power of attorney, and how to manage taxes and financial planning. Website: CPA Canada - Estate Planning Guide Indigenous Services Canada - Estate Services: Specific information and services for estate matters concerning Indigenous peoples in Canada. Website: Indigenous Services Canada - Estate Services Grief Counseling and Support Groups
Mississauga First Nation Programs: Check with the Health Services and Social Services Departments for available programming. Information: Please see our Health Services and Social Services pages for more information. Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA): CMHA offers resources for mental health support, including grief counseling. They have various local branches across Canada. Website: Canadian Mental Health Association Bereaved Families of Ontario: This organization provides peer support groups facilitated by trained volunteers who have themselves experienced grief. Website: Bereaved Families of Ontario The Compassionate Friends of Canada: A national organization offering support to families after the death of a child. This organization provides a safe environment for parents and families to share their grief. Website: The Compassionate Friends of Canada Kids Help Phone: For younger members of the community, Kids Help Phone offers confidential online and telephone counseling and volunteer-led, text-based support in English and French. Website: Kids Help Phone Psychology Today - Therapist Directory: This directory can be used to find therapists who specialize in grief counseling. You can filter by location to find therapists near you. Website: Find a Therapist First Nations Health Authority - Mental Wellness and Counseling Support: This resource is specifically for Indigenous peoples in Canada, offering culturally appropriate mental wellness and counseling support. Website: First Nations Health Authority It's important to choose a support group or counseling service that feels right and meets individual needs. These resources are a starting point for those seeking help and support during the grieving process. Cultural and Spiritual Support
Mississauga First Nation Cultural Programs: Check with the Health Services and Social Services Departments for programs, ceremonies, and support that honor traditional practices and beliefs. Information: Please see our Health Services and Social Services pages for more information. Indigenous Spiritual Leaders and Elders: Elders and spiritual leaders play a critical role in offering guidance, comfort, and traditional ceremonies to help families through the grieving process. Contact Details: Please contact the Wiindamaagewin Enagaadoot for more information. Native Women's Association of Canada - Healing and Wellness: This association offers resources and support focusing on the cultural and spiritual wellness of Indigenous women and their families. Website: Native Women's Association of Canada First Nations Health Authority: The FNHA provides culturally appropriate health services, including mental wellness and spiritual support, for First Nations people in Canada. Website: First Nations Health Authority Indigenous Services Canada - Mental Health and Wellness: Offers a range of services and supports, including access to traditional healing practices and spiritual counseling. Website: Indigenous Services Canada - Mental Health and Wellness Four Directions Teachings: An online resource that offers valuable insights into Indigenous knowledge and spiritual teachings from various elders across North America. Website: Four Directions Teachings These resources can provide comfort and support that align with the cultural and spiritual practices of Indigenous peoples, helping them navigate the grief process in a way that is respectful and meaningful to their traditions. Frequently asked questions (f.a.q)
1. What is the Bereavement Fund? Answer: The Bereavement Fund is a financial assistance program established by the Mississauga First Nation to help cover funeral and burial expenses for the families of deceased band members. 2. Who is eligible for the Bereavement Fund? Answer: The fund is available to the families of registered Mississauga First Nation band members. Eligibility extends to immediate and, in the absence of immediate family, secondary and extended family members who are also band members. 3. What types of expenses does the fund cover? Answer: The fund covers various funeral-related expenses, including travel costs for family members, tombstone purchase, ceremonial materials, honorariums for special guests, utensils and cutlery for wakes, and obituary notices. 4. How much financial assistance can be received from the fund? Answer: Eligible families can receive a subsidy up to $2,000 per funeral, contingent upon the criteria outlined in the application and budget form. 5. How do I apply for the Bereavement Fund? Answer: Families must select a Family Representative to submit a completed budget form to the Mississauga First Nation administration. All relevant details and forms are available on our website. 6. Is the fund available for funerals conducted off the Reserve? Answer: Yes, the fund is available regardless of where the funeral is conducted. It is open to all band members, irrespective of their place of residence. 7. What is required for fund disbursement? Answer: Upon approval, 80% of the funds are released after signing an agreement. The remaining 20% is disbursed after verifying that the funds were used for funeral expenses. 8. What if I disagree with the fund decision? Answer: If you are unsatisfied with the decision regarding the fund, you may request a review, first with the band representative and then, if needed, with the Chief and Council. Their decision is final. 9. Are receipts required for expenses? Answer: Yes, receipts and invoices are required to ensure accountability and proper use of the fund. This documentation is also necessary for the final 20% disbursement. 10. Can the fund be used for non-band members? Answer: No, the Bereavement Fund is exclusively for registered Mississauga First Nation band members and does not extend to non-band members. |
CONTACT INFORMATION
H. Arnott, Niigaaniin Case Worker (Main Contact for Bereavement Fund) D. Jacques, Niigaaniin Director Kristen Jackpine, Reception DOCUMENTS
Bereavement Fund Policy Letter of Agreement - Bereavement Fund Budget Form - Bereavement Form LOCATION
15 Sawmill Road PO BOX 1299 Mississauga First Nation, ON P0R 1B0 Phone: 705-356-1621 Ext. 2351 Fax: 705-356-0728 Toll Free: 1-877-356-1621 Ext. 2351 |