For the last five years, the Yukon First Nation Education Directorate (YFNED) has been running a rural nutrition program in 13 communities in Yukon, providing two meals and snacks daily along with school break hampers. Unfortunately, this year, the program has been halted as Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) rejected YFNED’s funding request under Jordan’s Principle.
Melanie Bennett, the executive director of YFNED, expressed concern over the impact this decision will have on nearly 900 children and youth in the region. She emphasized the crucial role of access to regular meals for overall well-being, especially in Indigenous families facing food insecurity due to high living costs and remoteness.
Jordan’s Principle aims to ensure equitable access to government services for First Nations children regardless of location, avoiding jurisdictional disputes. Despite meeting the necessary criteria for funding renewal, Bennett was disheartened by ISC’s delayed and negative response, which she deemed uninformed.
In response, YFNED criticized ISC for misunderstanding the rural nutrition program’s significance and the challenges of food insecurity in remote Indigenous communities. The organization is appealing the decision and requesting a review, giving the government a 30-day window before potential legal action.
Moreover, the suspension of the program not only affects Indigenous children but also leads YFNED to scale back other services, including the Christmas break hamper program, impacting both urban and rural families. Bennett highlighted the dilemma of maintaining fairness in service delivery without adequate funding.
Alexa Nagano, a student from Dawson City, shared her distress over the program’s termination, emphasizing the financial strain it places on families reliant on the support. The rising cost of living compounds the situation, prompting concerns about essential expenses like utilities and food.
Despite requests for comment, ISC did not respond directly. The department clarified that Jordan’s Principle is not a substitute for income assistance but can aid families with temporary relief measures. It stressed the case-by-case evaluation process and the option to challenge denied requests through judicial review.
Chief Dylan Loblaw of the Ross River Dena Council lamented the program’s end, labeling it a failure on Canada’s part and highlighting the positive impact on students’ nutrition and employment opportunities. MP Brendan Hanley voiced support for YFNED’s appeal, acknowledging the program’s proven benefits in enhancing children’s well-being and academic performance.
