First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle Settlement

On October 24, 2023, the Federal Court approved the Settlement Agreement for the First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle (FNCFSJP) Class Action (the Settlement). The Settlement Agreement includes $23.34 billion in compensation for impacted First Nations individuals and some of their family members.

This agreement intends to compensate those harmed by discriminatory underfunding of the First Nations Child and Family Services program and those impacted by the federal government’s narrow interpretation of Jordan’s Principle.

The Caregiving Parents or the Caregiving Grandparents of children who were removed from their homes or denied access to an essential service may also be able to receive compensation.

Castlemain’s role in implementing the FNCFSJP Settlement – Claims Helper Program is to assist the Claims Administrator in providing claim form assistance to Class Members in the Claims Process as outlined in the Settlement Agreement Schedule I, Framework for Supports for Claimants in Compensation Process in a culturally safe and trauma informed way. Our guiding purpose is to provide compassionate and skillful Claim Form assistance to Class Members. We offer practical support by helping with the completion of Claim Forms, providing information to help Claimants understand the details of the Settlement and Claims Process, and fostering supportive interactions with Claimants throughout. Furthermore, we are dedicated to ensuring that Claimants are well-informed about the wellness support and resources available to them.