History & Background
Who was Jordan River Anderson, and why is Jordan’s Principle named after him?
Jordan River Anderson was a Cree boy from Norway House Cree Nation in Manitoba. He was born with complex medical needs and died in hospital in 2005 because governments fought over who would pay for his home care.
Who is eligible for Jordan’s Principle?
All First Nations children in Canada, on or off reserve, whether status or non-status.
Name two examples of health services covered.
Medical equipment, therapies, mental health supports, transportation to appointments.
How can RNs identify children who might benefit from Jordan’s Principle?
By screening for barriers in accessing services or noticing unmet needs in Indigenous children.
In what year did Jordan River Anderson pass away, and what was the main cause of the delay in his care?
He died in 2005 at age five. The main cause of delay was a jurisdictional dispute between the federal and provincial governments over who was financially responsible for his home-based care.
Can First Nations children living off-reserve apply?
Yes — Jordan’s Principle applies regardless of where the child lives.
Give two examples of educational services covered.
Tutoring, psycho-educational assessments, assistive technology.
What steps should an RN take to help families apply?
Help families fill out forms, contact the Jordan’s Principal coordinator, and gather documentation.
What was the main dispute between federal and provincial governments about his care?
The dispute was about whether the federal (responsible for “status Indians”) or provincial government (responsible for healthcare) should pay for his care costs.
What age range does Jordan’s Principal cover?
From birth until the age of majority (18 or 19, depending on province/territory).
Give two examples of social or cultural support funded.
Respite care, land-based activities, cultural supports.
What documents or information might families need to submit?
Child’s information, proof of need (e.g., medical letter or school report), and band/Nation recognition if applicable.
What was the key outcome of Jordan’s story for Indigenous child welfare in Canada?
His death led to the creation of Jordan’s Principle — a “child-first” policy ensuring First Nations children receive timely care, with the government paying first and resolving disputes later.
What other Indigenous groups may have equivalent programs?
Inuit children may access equivalent programs through Inuit-specific agreements or funding streams.
How are funding requests assessed and approved?
Each request is reviewed case-by-case based on the child’s needs; the government pays first, then resolves funding questions later.
Who can RNs contact for help with an application?
The local Jordan’s Principal Service Coordinator, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB), or community health representative.