Jordan’s Principle is a child first initiative that helps to provide funding to help ensure that First Nations children, living on reserve or ordinarily resident on reserve, with a disability or a short-term critical condition that affects their activities of daily living have access to needed health services and supports, comparable to those available to other children living in the same province. A new ruling from CHRT has included children who do not have Status but whose parents are eligible for Status, which has broadened the eligibility for the program.

Funding can help with a wide range of health, social and educational needs, including the unique needs that First Nations Two-Spirit and LGBTQQIA children and youth and those with disabilities may have. Service Coordinators are able to provide answers to any questions community members have, as well as make applications to Indigenous Services Canada and help gather the necessary documentation.

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 First Nations children for generations to come.

Service coordinators help community members navigate the provincial and federal programs that are available to them in a culturally safe and respectful way. As well, when gaps are identified we gather necessary information for the families to advocate for funding. When funding is approved for First Nations Children, we find professionals (Psychologists, Occupational Health, Tutors, Speech-language therapists, Cultural Workers, and respite workers) that can provide private services that are appropriate for the families.