Dear friends —
We welcome the federal government’s decision to extend the Inuit Child First Initiative (ICFI) for one year, ensuring that many critical programs will continue. This is a victory for the thousands of children and families who rely on these essential supports, and for the more than 3,000 people who took action by writing to the federal government to stand up for Inuit children.
We are deeply grateful to our partners, community members, and supporters who made their voices heard. Your advocacy helped secure this commitment, demonstrating the power of collective action in protecting Inuit children’s rights and well-being.
With this extension, our attention now turns to ensuring that the future of ICFI is shaped by Inuit, for Inuit. The long-term solution must be responsive to community needs and designed to put people first. As the government moves forward in shaping the long-term model for ICFI, we will continue to advocate for a system that removes bureaucratic barriers and centers Inuit decision-making.
This is an important step forward, but there is more work ahead. We remain committed to working alongside our partners and communities to ensure that ICFI remains a reliable, accessible, and effective program for Inuit children and families.
Thank you to everyone who has stood with us to ensure the true north wasn’t left behind.
With gratitude,
Arctic Children and Youth Foundation