A strong Canada depends on communities where people are safe and an economy where everyone has a fair chance to contribute, work, and lead. On May 25th, 2026, MP Sonia Sidhu joined the Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism), in Brampton South for an announcement highlighting over $77.5 million in funding to extend projects for 395 organizations across Canada.
During the visit, Minister Valdez and MP Sidhu met with local partners and community leaders at Sheridan College’s Davis Campus in Brampton South to discuss the impact of community-based organizations and the importance of sustained support for gender equality initiatives. The announcement underscored the federal government’s commitment to strengthening organizations that deliver critical services and support across the country.
This is the largest WAGE funding announcement ever by number of organizations directly supported, and will help recipients advance gender equality, support survivors, strengthen 2SLGBTQI+ communities, and expand participation in Canada’s economy and society. These organizations are doing life-changing work every day by helping women enter and stay in the workforce, supporting victims and survivors of violence, creating safe spaces, and strengthening community services.
This funding builds on a previous investment of more than $167.2 million that has already supported community organizations in delivering services, expanding programs, and advancing gender equality across Canada. With this new funding, more people and communities will be reached when support is needed most.
The additional funding includes:
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$44.4 million for 218 organizations to strengthen their work and support projects that advance women’s full participation in Canada’s economic, social, and civic life.
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$23.2 million for 112 organizations to prevent and respond to gender-based violence, including Indigenous-led projects and research to improve supports for survivors.
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$9.9 million for 65 organizations to strengthen the 2SLGBTQI+ sector and support safer, more inclusive communities.
“Women’s organizations, survivors’ advocates, and 2SLGBTQI+ community leaders are doing essential work in communities across the country every day, and today’s announcement demonstrates the government’s support for that work. This historic investment will help strengthen the organizations people rely on and support safer, more inclusive communities here in Brampton and across Canada,” said MP Sidhu, who also noted the importance of continuing to invest in local organizations that are making a real difference on the ground.
The Government of Canada will continue working with partners across the country to advance gender equality, remove barriers, and build safer, more inclusive communities for everyone.