Jordan's Principle
Jordan’s Principle makes sure all First Nations children 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.
A legal rule
In 2016, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT) determined the Government of Canada’s approach to services for First Nations children was discriminatory. One way we are addressing this is through a renewed approach to Jordan’s Principle.
Since the ruling, the CHRT has issued a number of follow-up orders about Jordan’s Principle. In May 2017, the CHRT ordered that the needs of each individual child must be considered, to ensure the following is taken into account under Jordan’s Principle:
- substantive equality
- safeguarding the best interests of the child
- providing culturally appropriate services
This means giving extra help when it is needed so First Nations children have an equal chance to thrive.
Between July 2016 and November 30, 2023, more than 4.2 million products, services and supports were approved under Jordan’s Principle. These included:
- speech therapy
- educational supports
- medical equipment
- mental health services
- and more
What we are doing
We are supporting children who need help right away and are making long-term changes for the future, such as through reforming child and family services.
For the long-term, we are working to build better structures and funding models. These will make sure First Nations children living in Canada get the products, services and supports they need, when they need them. To do this, we are working closely with:
- provinces
- territories
- First Nations partners
- service organizations
Since 2016, the Government has committed $3.5 billion toward meeting the needs of First Nations children through Jordan’s Principle.
Local service coordinators have been hired in communities across Canada. They can help families who:
- have questions about Jordan’s Principle
- would like to submit a request for products, services or supports under Jordan’s Principle
We fund these coordinators, who are staffed by:
- local tribal councils
- First Nations communities
- regional health authorities
- First Nations non-governmental organizations, etc.