THUNDER BAY — Students who attended a federal Indian Day School only have a few more months to submit claims for compensation under a class action.
In 2019, the Federal Court approved a settlement to compensate students with between $10,000 and $200,000 each, depending on the level of abuse and harm they suffered.
The same agreement created a $200-million legacy fund to support commemoration projects, health and wellness projects and language and culture initiatives.
Day schools weren't part of the Indian Residential School Settlement Agreement of 2006.
There were nearly 700 such schools across Canada.
The first one started in 1863 and the last one closed in 2000.
In Northwestern Ontario, 65 Indian Day Schools operated at various times.
Community support sessions were held in Thunder Bay last summer to help people file their claims.
The claim submission deadline is July 13, 2022.
So far more than 130,000 individuals across the country have applied for compensation.
Individuals still needing assistance can get free legal support by calling 1-844-539-3815 or by emailing dayschools@gowlingwlg.com.
Information is available online at indiandayschools.com.