SCO Launches First Nation Disability Program

February 7, 2025

“We’ve seen firsthand how systemic issues have prevented many of our citizens with disabilities from reaching their full potential. With the creation of this new program, we are one step closer to ensuring all our Nation members can live with dignity and have equal opportunities.” – Grand Chief Jerry Daniels

ANISHINAABE AND DAKOTE TERRITORY, MB – The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is pleased to announce the launch of its new First Nation Disability Program. This vital program aims to provide essential support and services to southern First Nation citizens who live with disabilities.

“For far too long, our relatives with disabilities have faced significant barriers and gaps when it comes to accessing the critical services they need,” stated Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. “Today, in launching this program, we are making a firm commitment to change this reality. The program is designed to help minimize challenges by offering services grounded in our traditional ways and by providing advocacy for our Nation members in need.”

Research shows that First Nations people across Canada experience disability rates higher than the general population. Despite this, accessing the necessary disability services remains a persistent challenge, especially for those living on reserve.

The First Nation Disability Program will assist First Nation citizens living with disabilities, along with their caregivers, to navigate available services and advocate for their needs. A dedicated Disabilities Navigator will offer support in accessing federal and/or provincial disability programs and applying for benefits. The program will also host workshops and information sessions to equip participants with valuable knowledge and resources.

“This is an encouraging development for our First Nations relatives living with disabilities,” said Chief Kurvis Anderson of the Pinaymootang First Nation. “Thanks to the advocacy of our member Harriet Sumner-Pruden, we have already secured the removal of eligibility exclusions in Children’s disABILITY Services and home care for First Nation children living on reserve. This new program expands our efforts to provide even more services for our citizens.”

In addition to the First Nation Disability Program, SCO is proud to offer Jordan’s Principle programming through coordinators who assist First Nation children, youth, and families with disability needs in health care facilities and school divisions across southern Manitoba. SCO also provides Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Navigators to help citizens access services covered by the NIHB Program.

“We’ve seen firsthand how systemic issues have prevented many of our citizens living with disabilities from reaching their full potential. With the creation of this new program, we are one step closer to ensuring all citizens of our member Nations can live with dignity and have equal opportunities,” concluded Grand Chief Daniels.

For more information visit SCO’s First Nation Disability Program for more information on how to access service and supports.

– 30 –

The Southern Chiefs’ Organization represents 32 First Nations and more than 88,000 citizens in what is now called southern Manitoba. SCO is an independent political organization that protects, preserves, promotes, and enhances First Nations peoples’ inherent rights, languages, customs, and traditions through the application and implementation of the spirit and intent of the Treaty-making process.

For media inquiries:

Email: Media@scoinc.mb.ca

NT5