Jordan's Principle / Inuit Child First Initiative ensures that all Inuit / First Nation children have access to the essential government-funded health, social and educational products, services and supports they need, when they need them.

Who is eligible?

  • All Inuit children, no matter where they live in Canada.
  • Must be recognized by an Inuit land claim organization.
  • Under the age of Majority (0-18)

Brochure

Funder: Indigenous Services Canada

Legacy of Jordan River Anderson

Jordan was born in 1999 with multiple disabilities and stayed in the hospital from birth. When he was 2 years old, doctors said he could move to a special home for his medical needs. However, the federal and provincial governments could not agree on who should pay for his home-based care. Jordan stayed in the hospital until he passed away at the age of 5.

In 2007, the House of Commons passed Jordan's Principle in memory of Jordan. It was a commitment that Inuit / First Nations children would get the products, services and supports they need, when they need them.

Today, Jordan's Principle is a legal obligation, which means it has no end date.

While programs and initiatives to support it may only exist for short periods of time, Jordan's Principle will always be there. Jordan's Principle will support Inuit / First Nations children for generations to come.

What is covered?

Some examples of what could be funded include:

Social:

  • Land-based activities
  • Specialized camps
  • Language programming
  • Cultural resources
  • Country food programs

Health:

  • Cultural services from Elders
  • Wheelchair ramps
  • Mental health counseling
  • Assessments & Screening
  • Medical supplies & equipment

Educational:

  • Tutoring services
  • Educational assistants
  • Specialized school transportation
  • Assistive technologies and home school supplies

What information you may need to provide when applying?

  • Child's date of birth, contact and address
  • Child & Parent beneficiary number
  • A statement from parent or guardian illustrating financial hardship
  • Summary of child's history and unique needs
  • List of product, service or support needed and an estimated cost
  • List how will the service/items you are requesting, addresses your child's needs
  • A letter of support with a description of how the product/service requested will be of benefit for the child.

We're here to help

Matthew Usenko, Manager
Inuit Child First Initiative

Jenelle Sammurtok
Inuit Child First Navigator

Sarah Qavvik
Inuit Child First Navigator

Toll-free number:
1-800-948-7804

Email: child.first@manitobainuit.ca

Manitoba Inuit Association
Inuit Association of Manitoba

1000 Notre Dame Ave,
Winnipeg, MB R3E 0N3
204-774-6848

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