Loss of Jordan's Principle Programs Across Canada
First Nations across Canada are experiencing a decline in Jordan's Principle programs due to reduced funding, from $1.72 billion in 2023-24 to $1.64 billion in 2024-25.
Onigaming First Nation in northern Ontario, under a state of emergency since 2024, has been severely impacted.
“Just in the past four years, we’ve had 46 deaths. That’s roughly about 5 per cent of our population overall,”said Chief Jeff Copenace, highlighting the alarming rate of deaths, including suicides.
- Crisis response teams
- An after-hours safety team patrolling homes and the community at night to ensure resident safety, especially for children and youth
These programs addressed mental health issues but are now at risk due to the loss of funding.
Author's summary: First Nations face loss of crucial programs.