Government Of Canada Announcement Funding

USPA NEWS - The Government of Canada announces over $3.7 million in funding for projects to help prevent firearm-related harm and promote public safety Canada.

In a promising development, the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Public Safety, unveiled over $3.7 million in federal funding through the innovative 'Red Flag' Awareness Initiative, paving the way for positive change.

This funding empowers 23 organizations across Canada to launch innovative projects that promote awareness of 'Red Flag' laws, specifically targeting individuals at risk of firearm-related harm, including women, Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, and those experiencing mental health conditions, ultimately fostering a safer and more supportive community for all.

Empowering communities to prioritize safety, 'Red Flag' laws are in place to protect individuals from potential harm, including situations involving intimate partner violence, domestic violence, gender-based violence, and people at risk of suicide, promoting a culture of care and well-being.

Funded projects are thoughtfully tailored by each organization to address the distinct needs of the communities they serve, empowering them with inclusive, easy-to-understand resources on 'Red Flag' laws and unlocking the potential for individuals and support networks to harness these vital protections.

The 'Red Flag' Awareness Initiative is a key part of the Government of Canada's multifaceted strategy to tackle firearms-related crime and violence, driving positive change through measures such as lifetime background checks, restricted access to high-risk firearms, investments in law enforcement and border operations, community-based initiatives addressing the root causes of firearms violence, and strengthened firearms laws.

The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Public Safety, announced that through the “Red Flag” Awareness Initiative, our government is investing in community-led projects that empower individuals at risk of firearm violence to take control of their safety. These projects are designed to educate, support and uplift those who need it most, ensuring they can confidently access and utilize the protections available to them, preventing harm and creating a safer future.

The "Red Flag" Awareness Initiative was introduced in February 2025 to support projects that raise awareness of "Red Flag" laws among individuals at risk of firearms-related harm and the organizations supporting them nationwide. "Red Flag" laws enable anyone to apply to the court to temporarily restrict access to firearms or other weapons by an individual posing risks to themselves or others. These laws complement existing tools, such as calling 911 in urgent situations. Law enforcement officers continue to play a crucial role in preventing firearm violence. Fact sheets and information on "Red Flag" laws are available to the public and community organizations supporting victims of violence. In 2024, 28% of violent crime victims were victimized by an intimate partner, with 78% being women and girls.