Ottawa to extend $1.2B in funding for home care, mental health services

Ottawa announces extension on health funding
Ottawa announces extension on health funding
Federal Minister of Health Marjorie Michel, centre, addresses the media with her provincial health minister colleagues at a wrap-up news conference in Calgary, Friday, Oct. 17, 2025.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh
Writer

The federal government says it plans to extend funding to provinces and territories for mental health, addictions and home care by one year.

Health Minister Marjorie Michel says in a social media post that the announced extension represents $1.2 billion in funding.

Michel’s post comes after provincial health ministers expressed worry about "profound and negative" effects on patients and health care jobs if the federal funding agreements aren't renewed in this year's budget.

Provinces and territories also raised concerns earlier this month about the future of the Canada Health Transfer.

The federal budget will be tabled later this fall.

Provincial and territorial health ministers are set to meet Thursday in Winnipeg, while Michel is to co-chair Friday's meeting.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 14, 2026.

Copyright 2026, The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.

  • The Canadian Press is Canada's trusted news source and leader in providing real-time, bilingual multimedia stories across print, broadcast and digital platforms. From breaking regional, national and international stories to the biggest events in politics, business, entertainment and lifestyle, The Canadian Press is there when it matters, giving Canadians an authentic, unbiased source, driven by truth, accuracy and timeliness.

Toronto vs. Victoria: I compared the cost of living in 2026 and didn't expect these results

Some of the differences were surprisingly small — others cost thousands a year. 💸

Canada Child Benefit payments in October are giving parents up to $679 per child

Eligible parents and caregivers can expect money as a direct deposit or cheque.