The Southern First Nations Secretariat (SFNS) in Bothwell, Ontario, is hosting pop-up booths across southwestern Ontario to help Indigenous peoples apply for or renew their Secured Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) cards. These mobile clinics are set up at various locations such as school campuses, public parks, and pow wows to make the process easier and more accessible.
Ravynne Noah-Rich, SFNS’s trusted source coordinator, assists applicants by helping fill out forms, taking ID photos, and submitting applications. She emphasizes that the process is simple and quick, taking less than 10 minutes. The SCIS card, sometimes called the “white card,” is an official ID issued by Indigenous Services Canada that proves registration under the Indian Act. It can be used for border crossing, benefits, and tax exemptions.
Noah-Rich notes that many people hesitate due to misconceptions, fearing government tracking or loss of rights, but she reassures that the card is a secure, updated version of the previous laminated card. Clinics usually draw 10 to 50 people, from youth getting their first card to elders renewing. SFNS aims to provide a personable, local service, making it easier for Indigenous people to connect and access their rights. More clinics are scheduled throughout the summer in southwestern Ontario.
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