Iqaluit, Nunavut (June 10, 2026) Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI) is calling on the Government of Canada to commit long-term funding for the Inuit Child First Initiative (ICFI). Stable and predictable funding is needed to ensure Inuit children and families continue to receive the health, social, and educational supports they need when they need them.
ICFI was established after Inuit leaders raised concerns that Inuit children were not receiving equitable access to services available through Jordan’s Principle. Since then, the program has helped Inuit children and families across Canada access government-funded supports without unnecessary delays. ICFI helps address gaps in services by ensuring jurisdictional disputes do not prevent Inuit children from receiving the supports they require.
While ICFI was introduced as an interim measure, the need remains. Inuit children and families continue to face significant challenges, including poverty, food insecurity, and gaps in access to essential services. Long-term federal funding is needed to provide stability for families and ensure supports remain available while broader service gaps are addressed.
“We hear from families every day who are trying to access supports for their children,” said NTI President Gloria Uluqsi. “Inuit children deserve the same opportunities and services as every other child in Canada. Long-term funding for ICFI will help ensure families can continue to access the supports they need without delays or uncertainty.”
NTI urges the Government of Canada to commit long-term funding for ICFI and to continue working with Inuit partners to develop sustainable approaches that meet the needs of Inuit children and families in Nunavut.
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Media Contact:
Annie Thomlinson
Director of Communications
Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.
