Tikinagan Child and Family Services

Tikinagan Child and Family Services is a mandated Native Child Welfare agency located in Northwestern Ontario, Canada. It was founded by Chiefs and Elders from local First Nations communities. The organization serves approximately 30 First Nations communities, aiming to support families and protect children within these remote regions.

Goals and Mandate

Tikinagan Child and Family Services operates under a dual mandate:

1. Mandated by Ontario: It functions as one of the 53 Children's Aid Societies in Ontario, operating under the Child and Family Services Act. This mandate requires the organization to protect children from harm and ensure their safety.

2. Mandated by the Chiefs: The organization is also accountable to local First Nations Chiefs and communities, providing culturally sensitive services tailored to the specific needs of Aboriginal children and families.

Services and Programs

• Child Protection Services: Tikinagan provides vital child protection services to families connected to the served First Nations.
• Family Support: The organization focuses on mentoring young parents, supporting family well-being, and developing community-based prevention programs.
• Residential Care and Community Programs: Tikinagan employs a team of residential care workers, child care workers, family service workers, and prevention workers to deliver these services.

Community Reach

Tikinagan serves approximately 17,000 people across Northwestern Ontario, including areas within the districts of Kenora, Rainy River, and Thunder Bay. Its community-based approach emphasizes working in partnership with the communities to nurture families and children.

Overall, Tikinagan Child and Family Services plays a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of Indigenous families and children by providing culturally relevant and community-driven services.

[1] https://www.tikinagan.org [2] https://www.northwesthealthline.ca/displayService.aspx?id=198489 [3] https://www.ctctbay.org/community/www-tikinagan-org [4] https://211ontario.ca/service/65305489/tikinagan-child-and-family-services-child-and-family-services/ [5] https://www.tbnewswatch.com/directory/indigenous-organizations/tikinagan-child-family-services-70434