US EditionFunding cuts shut down B.C. Indigenous-led midwifery program
GREATER VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, JUL 9 – The South Island Indigenous Midwifery Services served 20,000 Indigenous people and supported 60 women annually before funding ended without explanation, prompting calls for restoration.
- On May 30, 2025, South Island Indigenous Midwifery Services shut down after funding from Island Health and the B.C. Ministry of Health was not renewed, ending the region's only Indigenous-led perinatal program.
- Island Health and the B.C. Ministry of Health declined to renew funding for SIIMS, with no explanation or interim support provided, leading to abrupt program closure.
- SIIMS served an estimated 20,000 Indigenous people since March 2023, with around 60 women supported annually, according to statements.
- SIIMS co-founders remain in a 'blackhole of information' as they demand four full-time midwifery positions, citing systemic inequity concerns over less comprehensive models.
- The shutdown risks reversing health gains for 20,000 Indigenous residents and undermines TRC Calls to Action for retaining Indigenous health providers.
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The department expects "impacts" on its activities and programs as well as on its workforce.
·Montreal, Canada
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Indigenous Services Canada warns 'difficult decisions' in budget cuts will impact programs
Indigenous Services Canada has warned staff that meeting the Carney government's budget cut targets "will involve difficult decisions that will impact our programs and activities, as well as our workforce." Then the next day, the department announced a large internal restructuring.
·Canada
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