OTTAWA — The Native Women’s Association of Canada says it was forced to lay off roughly half its workforce due to a major shortfall in federal funding.

The advocacy organization says it received grants totalling $48 million last year as part of Canada’s national apprenticeship program and other initiatives.

This year, revenue dropped to $10 million, with funding for staff falling from $11 million to $3 million.

As a result, the organization says it was forced to lay off 75 contract and permanent staff members, roughly half its workforce.

The organization is calling on the federal government to provide more stable core funding to ensure predictability in its advocacy efforts.

President Carol McBride says until that happens, their “financial hands are tied” as they do not have enough money to sustain current operations.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 28, 2024.

The Canadian Press