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What is Jordan’s Principle?

The Jordan’s Principle worker is responsible to coordinate services for children and families within the six First Nation communities who require services in accordance with the Jordan’s Principle directives funded by Department of Indigenous Services Canada. The Jordan’s Principle workers will work collaboratively with the First Nations and external services to ensure First Nation children are funded for appropriate services in a way that is reflective of their distinct cultural needs and that meets the children’s complex needs.

The Jordan’s Principle worker can assist children, youth and their families/caregivers to navigate the administrative process and apply for a variety of products and services.

Jordan’s Principle makes sure all First Nations children/youth living in Canada can access the products, services, and supports they need when they need them. 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. Jordan’s Principle is a child/youth-first approach to ensure that First Nations children/youth residing on or off reserve have access to the services they need when they need them. In addition to current, ongoing, and future services, First Nations children, youth, families, and service providers are eligible to apply retroactively for expenses previously incurred that were not covered.

What does Jordan’s Principle cover?

  • Speech Therapy/Aids
  • Educational Supplies/Aids
  • Mental Health Services
  • Family Support Services
  • Mobility Aids

  • Addiction Services

  • Mental Health Services

  • Assessments & Screenings

  • Therapeutic Services

  • Personal Support Workers

  • Land Based Activities

  • Specialized Summer Camps

  • Respite Care

  • Tutoring

  • Psycho-educational Assessments

Who is eligible?

A child/youth under the age of majority in their province or territory of residence can access Jordan’s Principle, if they permanently reside in Canada and if the child/youth meets one of the following criteria:

  • Is registered or eligible to be registered under the Indian Act.
  • Has one parent or guardian who is registered or eligible to be registered under the Indian Act.
  • Is recognized by their nation for the purposes of Jordan’s Principle.
  • Is ordinarily a resident on reserve.

On November 25, 2020, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT) released a ruling about Jordan’s Principle eligibility. The eligibility above replaces the CHRT interim motion ruling of February 2019.

First Nations Child and Family Services programs are also eligible to apply for funding. The funding was extended to these programs to ensure that these agencies are able to provide equitable services to children.

How Do I Apply?

Niijaansinaanik Child and Family Services has a Jordan’s Principle Worker available to assist families/caregivers with the application process. Please contact our  Jordan’s Principle Coordinator at 1-855-223-8885 or by e-mail. 

To learn more you can also visit jordansprinciple.ca (First Nations Child and Family Caring Society) or canada.ca/jordans-principle or call 1-855-572-4453 (1-855-JP-CHILD) (Canada).