Cambridge Bay Faces Challenges with Discontinuation of Food Vouchers

The discontinuation of hamlet food vouchers is raising concerns among parents in Cambridge Bay as the new school year approaches. Alan Sim, chair of the Cambridge Bay District Education Authority, expressed that the ending of this financial support is creating obstacles for families just as children prepare to return to school. With six grandchildren ranging from six months to 21 years old, Sim emphasized that the loss of these vouchers impacts students’ ability to focus on their education.

“The money helped parents to afford food — and hungry children find it hard to learn,” Sim stated, highlighting the vital role these vouchers played in supporting families. Under the Inuit Child First Initiative, the federal government provided funding from 2023 until April 2024, delivering $500 per month to families with children under 18 and $750 per month for families with children under three. This initiative accounted for a total expenditure of $92.1 million.

New guidelines introduced by Indigenous Services Canada now require families to apply based on their individual circumstances, stating that they must obtain documentation from a licensed professional rather than receiving a standard amount. This shift has implications for funding that previously supported a lunch program for both Kullik Ilihakvik Elementary School and Kiilinik High School. “That will dry up, and we need to look for alternatives,” Sim remarked. While the situation appears challenging, he noted that the Breakfast Club of Canada continues to provide funding for both schools.

Families that previously received hamlet food vouchers can still apply for assistance under the Inuit Child First Initiative, which helps cover temporary expenses for rent, groceries, or utilities. Maryeva Metellus, a spokesperson for Indigenous Services Canada, confirmed that the department is developing a long-term strategy to address these issues.

Sim also mentioned ongoing challenges related to staffing at the schools, though he remains optimistic about the situation. “I did have a bit of a concern over having enough staff, but thanks to the admin staff at both schools and the work they put in over the summer, we should be fine,” he explained.

As the new school year begins, Sim is focused on helping his grandchildren transition into their academic routines. One is entering Grade 10, another Grade 3, while two are returning to preschool. This back-to-school period is an exciting time for Sim’s family, who are working on establishing regular sleep schedules and discussing appropriate behavior within an educational environment.

The changes in funding and support systems are likely to have lasting effects on the community, highlighting the importance of addressing the needs of families as they navigate both educational and financial challenges.