Loss of Jordan's Principle Programs Affects First Nations
First Nations across Canada are experiencing a decline in Jordan's Principle programs due to reduced funding.
Funding for Jordan's Principle services decreased from $1.72 billion in 2023-24 to $1.64 billion in 2024-25.
Onigaming First Nation in northern Ontario, which has been under a state of emergency since 2024, is among those affected. The community has seen 46 deaths in the past four years, including deaths by suicide, according to Chief Jeff Copenace.
Just in the past four years, we’ve had 46 deaths. That’s roughly about 5 per cent of our population overall.
Onigaming had implemented various programs to address mental health issues, including crisis response teams and an after-hours safety team.
Author's summary: Canada's First Nations face reduced funding for Jordan's Principle programs.