Child and Family Services
History:
Opted out of YTSA service delivery agreement in 2012/2013
INAC’s child population (1000) requirement meant O’Chiese was not eligible for federal funding to assume delegation of authority
Transfer of services from YTSA to Central Region, Rocky Mountain House office
Requested funding for an early intervention program
Present Service Delivery Funded Through Early Intervention Program
- On-reserve program to support families and maintain connection
- Consult with case workers from Rocky Mountain House, Drayton Valley, Red Deer
- Provide walk-in support to families
- Make referrals to other resources both on and off reserve
- Guidance around parenting conflicts
- Works with CW Committee (appointed by Chief and Council)
Band Designate
- Provides support and connection for families off-reserve.
- Participate in Family meetings as a voice for the child and family when Children and Family Services in involved
- Consults with Case Managers/Support Workers.
- Promotes visits between children and their families when separated or in care of the government.
- Notification of cultural events and ceremonies held within the community to Case Workers and Caregivers (foster homes, kinship homes) to promote re-connection to community and family.
- Assist in court proceedings.
Community Initiatives (Honouring Home Fires)
- Promote and embrace O’Chiese culture and language
- Honour and support families to achieve their roles as primary caregivers
- Guiding parents/families back to traditional parenting through protocols and ceremonies
- Utilizing Elders and Creator’s laws to strengthen the re-connection to O’Chiese cultural teachings
- This initiative is aimed at preventing children from being removed from their home and community by preserving and supporting the family unit
