CFI – Frequently Asked Questions

 

Complete and submit a request

Q – Can I save the online form and complete it later?

A – No, it is not possible to save the form while filling it out. To facilitate the process, we recommend gathering all necessary documents and information before starting to complete it.

 

Q – Do I need to submit a request for each service or product recommended for my child?

A - No, you can submit a single request that includes all the recommended services for your child. Make sure to include all necessary documents for each requested service or product.

 

Q - Can I submit a request for a child if I am not their legal guardian or do not have parental authority?A - Yes, you can submit a request on behalf of the child, but you’ll need to provide proof of the parent’s consent. This can be a signed consent form or an email confirmation. [Link to the consent form].

 

Q – In which languages are the forms available ?

A – To ensure ease of understanding, the forms are available in French-Inuktitut and English-Inuktitut. You can respond only in French or English.

 

Q – Who can write a recommendation letter?

A - The recommendation letter must be written by a professional involved in the child’s circle of care. Depending on the type of service or product requested, it may be required that the professional is a member of a professional order. A letter written by the parents cannot be accepted as supporting documentation for the request.

 

Q – I need help filling out a request. Who should I contact?
A – You can contact the CFI Nunavik team for assistant with the form. If needed, CFI agents can also complete the request for you via phone or through other means.

Q- Who makes the final decision regarding my funding request?

A- The final decision on funding is made by Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). ISC evaluates requests based on the recommendations and supporting information provided by the CFI Nunavik processing team.

 

Q- What is the timeline for receiving a response regarding the approval or denial of funding?

A- When you submit your request to the CFI Nunavik, the response time is typically between 2 and 5 business days. However, the final decision regarding funding rests with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), and we have no control over their approval timelines.

 

Q- What should I do if I have not received a response regarding funding from Indigenous Services Canada within the usual timeframe?

A- Please contact the CFI team and provide the child’s name. If the child’s service, health, or safety is at risk, kindly inform us so we can notify Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) to prioritize the case. If the child’s situation changes during the processing period, we encourage you to reach out and update us accordingly.

 

Q- I submitted a funding request that was approved, but the final invoice amount is higher than the initially approved amount. What should I do?

A- Please submit a new request for approval of the additional amount, including the file number associated with the initial funding as well as the received invoice, so that CFI Nunavik can review your request.

 

Q- My child needs the same services every year. Can I submit a payment request using the same ISC file number for the following year?

A- No, since the ISC file number is associated with the funding and not with the child. Therefore, if there are no remaining funds in the initially approved ISC file, a new request must be submitted, even if it concerns the same service or product. Each year, CFI must receive a new complete request to assess the child’s needs, as these may evolve over time.

 

Q- If my child needs the same services every year, can I use the same recommendation letter for multiple years? 

A- No, a new recommendation letter is required each year to justify that the service remains necessary, based on the child’s evolving needs. This ensures that the service is still essential to meet the child’s current needs.

 

Q – Do I need to submit a request for each child individually?

A- No, you can include multiple children in a single request using the online regular request form (Individual, family, or group). Make sure to provide specific information for each child.

 

Eligibility and Beneficiaries Section

Q – Who can benefit from the Child First Initiative?

A – The Child First Initiative Nunavik is intended for beneficiary children of Nunavik. Additionally, an organization working with these children, under the age of 18, can also benefit from the Initiative. For more information on requests for an organization, please contact the CFI  team.

 

Q - The child is a beneficiary of Nunavut but resides in Nunavik. Can I submit a request to CFI Nunavik?

A - No, you must submit your request to the Jordan's Principle program. They will be able to process your request, as the CFI Nunavik team is responsible only for requests from children who are beneficiaries of Nunavik. You can contact them at the following address: principedejordan-qc-jordanprinciple@sac-isc.gc.ca.

Q- My child does not have a beneficiary number. Can I still submit a request to CFI?

A- Yes, if the child does not have a Nunavik beneficiary number, you may use a parent's number (Beneficiary Number or N Number) to submit the request.

 

Q- Does my child need to reside in Nunavik to access CFI funding?

 A- No, your child simply needs to be recognized as a Nunavik beneficiary to be eligible, regardless of their residence within Canada.

 

Q-Is my child eligible once they reach the age of majority?

A- Once your child reaches the age of majority (typically 18 years old, depending on their place of residence in Canada), they are no longer eligible for funding under the Child First Initiative, regardless of their diagnosis. If the request is for a person over the age of majority, please contact your CLSC to explore available services based on your situation.

 

Types of Requests and Covered Products/Services

Q – Which products or services are admissible under the CFI?

A – Funding requests must focus on the specific needs of each child, with the CFI considering the unique nature of each individual situation. While we offer categories of services and products, the options within these categories are provided as guidelines. We recommend contacting us if you have any doubts regarding the admissibility of a product or service.

 

Q- My child wants to participate in a specific activity. Can CFI cover the costs?

A- Funding requests must be focused on meeting the child's specific needs. For the CFI to consider covering the costs, it is crucial to clearly demonstrate how the requested funding addresses these needs through the supporting documents provided.

 

Q - If a child requires a specific service that is not available, can the IEA help find a professional or organize the service?
A - It is the responsibility of the applicant to find a professional and arrange the service. The CFI does not handle the search for professionals or the organization of necessary services.

 

Q- What does the ‘’Professional Service’’ category in the online form include?

A- The "Professional Service" category in the online form covers services provided by professionals, whether they are members of a professional order or not, such as psychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and others. You also have the option to select "Other" within the "Professional Service" category if the service title is not listed in the dropdown menu.

 

Q – What does the "Product, Material, and Equipment" category in the online form include?

A- This category covers all items and devices needed to support the child's development, health, and well-being, such as adapted equipment, electronic equipment, medical equipment, house furniture, and more. You also have the option to select "Other" within the "Product, Material, and Equipment" category if the item is not listed in the dropdown menu.

 

Q – What does the "Travel Expenses" category in the online form include?

A-The "Travel Expenses" category in the online form covers costs related to travel necessary for accessing services or activities that support the child. This may include ground transportation, airfare, accommodation fees, and more. You also have the option to select "Other" within the "Travel Expenses" category if your specific option is not listed in the dropdown menu.

 

Q – What does the "Educational Expenses" category in the online form include?

A- The "Education Expenses" category in the online form covers all costs related to the child's education. This may include tuition fees, school supplies, school transportation, student support staff, tutoring, and more. You also have the option to select "Other" within the "Education Expenses" category if your specific option is not listed in the dropdown menu.

 

Q- What does the "Camps and Childcare Expenses" category in the online form include?

A- The "Camps and Childcare Expenses" category in the online form includes costs related to the child's participation in camps—whether educational, recreational, or specialized—as well as childcare expenses aimed at meeting the child's needs. This may include fees for day camps, specialized camps, respite services, and regular childcare services such as daycare. You also have the option to select "Other" within the "Camps and Childcare Expenses" category if your specific option is not listed in the dropdown menu.

 

Q – What does the "Living Expenses" category in the online form include?

A - The "Living Expenses" category in the online form covers essential costs related to the child's daily life. This may include expenses for food assistance, housing support, clothing, and other basic necessities required to ensure the child's well-being, particularly in situations requiring additional support. You also have the option to select "Other" within the "Living Expenses" category if your specific option is not listed in the dropdown menu.

 

Q – What does the "Infrastructure and Immobilizations" category in the online form include?

A - The "Infrastructure and Immobilizations" category in the online form covers expenses related to minor renovations or infrastructure modifications needed to meet the child's specific needs. You also have the option to select "Other" within the "Infrastructure and Immobilizations" category if your specific option is not listed in the dropdown menu.

 

Q- What does the "Vehicles" category in the online form include?

A- The "Vehicles" category in the online form includes expenses related to the purchase or modification of vehicles required to meet the child's specific needs. This may involve adapted vehicles for individuals with reduced mobility and special modifications such as ramps or accessibility systems to ensure the child's safe transportation.

 

Q – What does the "Wellbeing Activities" category in the online form include?

A- The "Wellbeing Activities" category in the online form includes expenses related to activities that promote the child's physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This may cover costs for recreational programs, sports classes, personal development workshops, and other initiatives tailored to the child's specific needs.

 

Q- If I request an item/product, are there any specific guidelines to follow?

A- Yes, when requesting a product, material, or equipment, it is essential to ensure that the item meets standard quality and is not a luxury product. The items selected should be appropriate for the child’s specific needs and reflect their actual requirements.

Fees and reimbursement

Q - I have already paid for the recommended services for the child. Can I be reimbursed?

A - For any services rendered or products already purchased, please note that an official funding request must be submitted to CFI Nunavik to obtain the necessary approval for the service or product in question. Once official approval is granted by Indigenous Services Canada, you will be eligible for payment request.

 

Q- Does the CFI provide retroactive funding for services or products?

A- Yes, the CFI can provide retroactive funding for expenses incurred since June 19, 2018. To ensure your request is eligible, it is essential to provide all required supporting documents, including a recommendation letter confirming the need at the time the service was provided and the corresponding invoices.

 

Q - What is the processing time to receive a reimbursement?

A – The processing time to receive a reimbursement from CFI Nunavik is typically 2 to 3 business weeks. If this timeframe is exceeded, please contact the CFI finance team for further information. Regarding reimbursements under Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), we have no control over the processing times, which may vary. If your reimbursement is dependent on ISC, we encourage you to contact them directly. Principe De Jordan-Qc / Jordan Principle <principedejordan-qc-jordanprinciple@sac-isc.gc.ca>

 

Q - What are the payment options for professional services if I am unable to pay the fees upfront?
A - If you are unable to pay the fees upfront, you can ask the service provider if they are willing to submit the reimbursement request, along with the invoice, directly to Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) or IEA Nunavik, without requiring you to pay the fees in advance.

Management and Organization of Requests

Q- Why do I now need to submit my requests to IEA Nunavik rather than the Jordan's Principle?

A- The Child First Initiative (CFI) was established in 2018 to address the specific needs of Inuit children. Over time, the responsibilities of the CFI have evolved, and we are now responsible for all requests for children who are beneficiaries of Nunavik, while Jordan's Principle now only applies to First Nations. Therefore, your requests should be submitted to CFI Nunavik, rather than Jordan's Principle. This change allows for better tailoring of services to meet the unique needs of Inuit families who are beneficiaries of Nunavik.

 

Q - What is the difference between Jordan's Principle and the Child First Initiative (CFI)?

A - Both Jordan's Principle and the Child First Initiative (CFI) aim to ensure that First Nations and Inuit children receive the services they need, but they differ in their scope and approach. Jordan's Principle specifically applies to First Nations children, while the CFI is an initiative designed for Inuit children.

 

Q - How can I contact the IEA Nunavik team?

A –  You can reach the IEA Nunavik team via the following methods:

 

Q – Why is the CFI considered the last payer? Why do we need to provide proof that no other funding sources are available?

A – The Child First Initiative (CFI) acts as the last payer to ensure that resources are used effectively and targeted to meet needs that are not covered by other programs or funding sources. This means that before requesting funding from the CFI, it is necessary to verify whether other funding is available from other organizations or programs. This approach allows the CFI to focus on situations where no other financial support is accessible, ensuring that children beneficiries of Nunavik receive the essential services they need when other options are unavailable.

 

Personal Data Protection (Loi 25)

Q - How does the Initiative protect the personal information provided during an application?

A - The Nunavik Regional Board of Health and Social Services and Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) are required to comply with all privacy laws, including Bill 25. Any personal information submitted to the CFI is protected by this legislation. You have the right to access your personal information, correct it, and ensure its protection. If you believe your personal information has not been handled appropriately, you can also file a complaint with the Privacy Commissioner of Canada.

 

Appeal and Escalation Process

Q- What is the right to appeal a decision?

 A- Applicants have the right to appeal a decision. This process is communicated to the applicant as part of the outcome, specifically in the approval or denial letter from National Indigenous Services Canada (SAC). If a request is denied, the applicant may appeal the decision within one year of the denial date. To do so, the applicant must submit their appeal in writing and send it to the SAC Quebec regional office at the following address: principedejordan-qc-jordanprinciple@sac-isc.gc.ca.

 

Q- What is the escalation process ?

A- When the CFI does not recommend funding and the applicant wishes to continue processing their request, the CFI forwards its recommendation to ISC Quebec. ISC Quebec then submits the non-recommended request to ISC National’s escalation process. This process involves a reevaluation of the request in accordance with the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal decision of May 26, 2017, aimed at ensuring substantive equality, protecting the best interests of the child, and providing culturally appropriate services. This may result in delays in the processing of the request. After ISC National’s decision, an approval or denial letter will be issued and sent to ISC-QC, which will forward it to the CFI and the applicant.