Inuit Child First Initiative

The Inuit Child First Initiative is like Jordan’s Principle and helps Inuit children get the support they need. It makes sure they are treated fairly, their culture is respected and their well-being comes first.

All Inuit children in Canada can apply for funding through this program. To qualify, the child must be recognized by an Inuit land claim organization and be under the legal adult age in their province or territory.

In some cases, if a child is not registered as an Inuit land claims beneficiary but one parent is, you can use the parent’s registration information. If you have questions, you can contact us.

Age eligibility: Children aged 18 years and under.

For assistance with the Child First Initiative applications, please refer to the information below:

IRC is available to guide you through the application process.

Contact us at inuitcfi@inuvialuit.com or by phone at 867.777.7082.

Due to a high volume of calls please leave your name, number, and a detailed voicemail. We will return your call as soon as possible. Do not call to check on the status of your application.

There is no fee for Inuit children to access the Inuit Child First Initiative. IRC’s service coordinators will help you with a request or with your questions, for free.

Other resources

• Enrolment for registration of children for land claim: email enrolment@inuvialuit.com
• N number support: Inuvialuit Health Systems Navigator, Onida Banksland, email obanksland@inuvialuit.com
• Program Support Assistant: Holly Edwards-Joe, email hedwardsjoe@inuvialuit.com or call 867-777-7058.

Application Form checklist:

1. Complete the application using this link: https://forms.inuvialuit.com/cfi
   • For any sections you are unsure about, you can write not applicable “NA” 
   • After submitting, the application will be emailed for any necessary edits.

Quotes

Gather any necessary quotes. This could include references, estimated costs, or testimonials related to your application.

Parent Consent

Obtain a signed letter of consent from parents or guardians, if required. This states their approval for your application. You will need the parents date of birth and N number. 

Letter of Support

• A letter of support should come from a professional who thoroughly understands the child’s current situation. 
• To strengthen each application, a letter of support from a health, social, or educational professional is required. This letter should directly connect the requested services or support with the child’s specific health, social, or educational needs. Ideally, it should come from a professional who thoroughly understands the child’s current situation.
• For financial hardship requests, the letter should explain the family’s circumstances and why financial assistance is essential. These letters are typically provided by counsellors, social workers, physicians, or other professionals who can clearly outline the necessity of the requested items for the child.

For community-based letters of support, you may consider asking professionals in the following roles:

• Social Worker
• Counsellor
• Nurse
• Doctor
• Community Health Representative
• Wellness Worker
• Student and Family Support Worker
• Employment Officer
• Early Childhood Worker
• Victim Services Worker
• Education Professional
• Resolution Health Support Worker
• Healthy Family or Family Preservation Team (Inuvik)

These professionals can provide insight into the child’s situation and needs, making their support letters valuable for application reviews.

Please note that IRC staff do not manage the timeline for application reviews, nor does IRC have the authority to approve or deny requests. This responsibility lies solely with the Inuit Child First Initiative & Jordan’s Principal team at the federal government level.