Nunavut MP calls on Liberals to extend Inuit child funding program

OTTAWA — Nunavut MP Lori Idlout is repeating her calls for Ottawa to extend a funding program for Inuit children.

The Inuit Child First Initiative was introduced in 2019 to ensure Inuit kids have access to health and social services without having to leave their communities.

The federal government began with a $220-million commitment to the program, before topping it up for two more years with another $167.5 million.

But the program is slated to sunset at the end of March.

Idlout said more than 13,000 kids in Nunavut are enrolled in the program, which gives families $500 per child to help buy food, plus another $250 for kids younger than four.

“While the impact (of the program) was positive for the most part, helping lift many people out of poverty, a sudden stop to the program will be devastating,” Idlout told The Canadian Press.

“At the very least, the government should extend the program by one year and communicate what they plan to do after one year, extend or replace the program.”

Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu was unavailable for an interview Wednesday.

In a statement issued to The Canadian Press, her office said the government is looking for a long-term plan for the program.

“The Liberal government is committed to the Inuit Child First Initiative and implementing a long-term approach with Inuit partners,” wrote Jennifer Kozelj, Hajdu’s press secretary.

“The renewal and continuation of (the program) depends on supply being approved through Parliament.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 5, 2025.

The Canadian Press