(August 17, 2026 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario) – National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak stated today that more than 30,000 First Nations children who were removed from their homes have now received compensation through the First Nations Child and Family Services (FNCFS) and Jordan’s Principle Settlement. Over $1.2 billion has been provided in compensation to eligible Claimants, marking an important milestone in one of Canada’s largest class action settlements.
“Behind every Claim is an experience that reflects Canada’s discrimination against First Nations children and families,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “No amount of compensation can undo that harm. This milestone is important because it reflects the thousands of people whose experiences have now been acknowledged, while reminding us that others are still moving through the Claims Process.”
The Claims Period remains open for Removed Child Class and Removed Child Family Claimants. Claims can be submitted online, by mail or fax. Each Claim is individually reviewed to ensure that every Claimant has the opportunity to have their Claim assessed.
“Many eligible people have not yet submitted a Claim,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “We encourage all those eligible to submit their Claim before the deadline of March 10, 2028. Claims Helpers are available to explain eligibility, help gather documents, and provide support with completing forms. Mental wellness supports are available 24 hours a day through Hope for Wellness. No one is alone in this process.”
Those who may be eligible for Compensation under the Removed Child and Family Class include First Nations individuals who were removed from their homes as children between April 1, 1991, and March 31, 2022, or in the Yukon and were placed into care funded by Indigenous Services Canada, as well as their Caregiving Parents or Caregiving Grandparents. To check eligibility, access supports, and to apply for compensation, visit www.fnchildclaims.ca.
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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.
For more information, please contact:
Cherish Francis
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
(343) 630-1372 (mobile)
[email protected]