Survivors of Canada’s Federal Indian Day schools who didn’t submit a claim can still be part of a Class Action lawsuit even though the deadline to submit was Wednesday.
An extension request can be made to the settlement process until January of 2023 with forms available at indiandayschools.com.
Representatives for the firm undertaking the case encourage any survivors having trouble with the process to reach out for help.
“Even with the existing supports available, we acknowledge that some Class Members may find the claims process challenging and may be unable to submit a claim prior to the deadline. In anticipation of such events, the Settlement Agreement provides for a six-month extension period to file claims until January 13, 2023.” says Cam Cameron, Class Counsel lead for the Federal Indian Day School Implementation in a media release on the extension.
The extension requests will be given on a case-by-case basis and anyone who is still having difficulty submitting a claim is asked to reach out for help.
“We encourage individuals in need of support to call Class Counsel, we remain available to assist, free of charge, during the extension period”, says Cameron.
According to the firm, nearly 150,000 claims have been filed.
Class Counsel supports Class Members throughout the Claims Process. Individuals can receive free legal support and help filling out their Claim Forms by calling the Gowling WLG call center at 1-844-539-3815 or emailing dayschools@gowlingwlg.com.
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.
(Photo courtesy indiandayschools.com)