More than 300 families have benefitted from the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation’s Child First Initiative (CFI) funding during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, the IRC now says that funding has come to an end after it provided $448,000 to local stores to support the families.
The funding for CFI came from the federal government, which allowed families to buy a one-time bulk food order while in self-isolation during the pandemic.
The IRC has also put a pause on accepting more CFI applications.
In a news release, the organization said, “COVID-19 funding is now promised under different terms and program agreements that IRC is negotiating and in the process of planning for all beneficiaries.”
Non-virus-related CFI operations will continue later in April, with funding starting again “in some form after COVID-19.”
The IRC laid out a few scenarios for the near future:
- If you have already been approved for CFI, this benefit remains as initially approved.
- If you have applied and not been notified, you may receive news in the next few days.
- If you have children and need the support but missed out on CFI emergency funding, more support is coming and IRC understands we have individuals and families living in poverty and in need.
The IRC is working on new funding opportunities for its members and asks them to remain patient.
For now, it says, “Stay healthy and follow all recommended precautions. Inuvialuit can prevent the spread of COVID-19 in their homes and communities.”
