CFI Application & Referral Process

Learn more about the CFI application process at Qupanuaq

How we can support your Child First Initiative journey

Applying for CFI can be challenging. We provide wrap-around support to families wanting to access CFI funding. Service Coordinators conduct intakes to determine needs, engage in service navigation and advocacy, and assist with procurement and submitting applications. Services are available in Inuktitut and English.

What Is The Child First Initiative?

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For Families: How to get a referral & apply

Our services are by referral only. Our focus is on helping families that face challenges in accessing CFI on their own. We help families that have inconsistent phone/internet access, language barriers, and financial need. For more information on applying to CFI on your own, see our FAQ.

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1. Obtain a referral and support letter
A health care provider, social worker, teacher or other professional can send a referral and support letter to qupanuaqreferrals@acyf.ca.
2. Intake with Service Coordinator
A Qupanuaq service coordinator will contact you to learn more about your needs.
3. Application submission
Your service coordinator will submit your CFI application and make referrals to meet your child’s needs.
4. Approval and purchasing
You will be contacted when your application is approved and we will assist you with purchasing if needed.

For Service Providers: How to refer clients

A step by step guide for service providers referring clients to CFI through Qupanuaq.

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1. Submit a referral
Email qupanuaqreferrals@acyf.ca to receive a referrals link.
2. Include a support letter
All CFI requests require a support letter. Please attach your support letter through the referrals link.
3. Client consent
The Qupanuaq team will obtain consent from clients to submit a CFI application and will conduct a needs assessment.
4. Application submission
You will be copied on CFI application submissions to ISC by email.

Frequently Asked Questions about our Application & Referral Process

Can I apply on my own for CFI funding?

I am confused about the difference between Qupanuaq, ISC, CFI and ACYF?

Qupanuaq is a service coordination program located in Iqaluit that serves families in the Qikiqtaaluk region to access CFI funding.
Qupanuaq operates under an umbrella non-profit called Arctic Children and Youth Foundation (ACYF).
Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) is the federal government department that administers CFI.
Inuit Child First Initiative (CFI) is a program administered by the Government of Canada and is the Inuit equivalent of Jordan’s Principle.