OTTAWA — Organizers with the Indian Day Schools settlement claim are drawing attention to the approaching deadline for former students to submit their claims for compensation.
The deadline for submissions is July 13, 2022. Class members are eligible or free legal support and help filling out their Claim Form through Gowling WLG.
Just about 130,000 people have submitted their claims to date.
In-community workshops are provided to a number of communities, while online webinars are accessible to anyone who has questions or requires more information on how to complete their Claim Form. Additionally, 24-hour mental health support is available to anyone in distress through the Hope for Wellness Help Line.
“We recognize and honour the strength it takes to go through this claims process,” says Cam Cameron, Class Counsel lead for Indian Day Schools Implementation. “For those who attended a Federal Indian Day School but have yet to submit a Claim Form, we want you to know we are here to help you. With a few months before the deadline, we know there are still many people who have yet to file a Claim Form. We hope to avoid anyone feeling rushed or being left out. That’s why we are encouraging people to take the next step now.”
Former students of Federal Indian Day Schools who suffered harm while attending the school may be eligible for compensation, ranging from $10,000 to $200,000 based on the personal harm experienced.
Claims Assistance Webinars are being held via Zoom that provide virtual support for communities. Webinars, offered in both English and French, provide guidance on how to complete a Claim Form. This virtual support will continue to the July 13, 2022, deadline, ensuring uninterrupted service throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Dates and times for these webinars can be found online at indiandayschools.com/en/contact/presentations/
Mental health counselling and crisis support is available to Class Members 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through Hope for Wellness Help Line. Contact Hope for Wellness at 1-855-242-3310 or through their online chat at hopeforwellness.ca. Counselling is available in English, French, Cree, Ojibway and Inuktitut, on request.
