At CFSGE we provide dedicated Indigenous-specific services that include Investigation and Ongoing Family Service, Children’s Services, and Resource Teams. Each team is committed to providing families with culturally supportive services that value and honor the family of origin.
Our teams include staff with Indigenous knowledge, teachings, and lived experience, which strengthens our understanding of traditional practices and ensures service delivery that is both respectful and responsive to the unique needs of Indigenous children, youth, and families.
Commitment to Families
CFSGE is dedicated to supporting Indigenous children, families, and First Nations communities with services that are both culturally responsive and grounded in ministry standards. Our goal is to ensure equitable service while prioritizing the safety and well-being of children and families.
We recognize the profound impact of colonization on Indigenous communities and are committed to upholding the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action in all aspects of our service delivery.
Identity for Youth
Traditional Indigenous teachings emphasize the importance of identity in the life of a child/young person. At CFSGE, the Indigenous teams are committed to providing cultural opportunities and education that empower youth to take pride in their heritage and remain open to continued learning.
Children are the future. By ensuring they have a strong sense of identity and connection, we help preserve Indigenous languages, traditions, and cultures for generations to come.
Child Protection Services
At CFSGE, our child protection teams are committed to providing culturally responsive services shaped by Indigenous values, kinship, and community connections that respond to the unique needs of Indigenous families. Each team carries knowledge and understanding of traditional practices, and approaches each situation with kindness, respect, and understanding.
Our goal is to ensure that all families receive fair and equitable services that uphold both cultural values and child safety.
Band and Community Support
At CFSGE our teams work collaboratively with the local First Nations Bands and surrounding communities. Through consultation and meaningful engagement with the First Nations Bands, children, youth and families share feelings of being supported and well connected to their community.
For Métis children the worker will contact the Métis Nation of Ontario to determine their level if involvement.
For Inuit children the worker will consult the Tungasuvvingat Inuit Kamatsiarniq Program to determine their level of involvement
The positive relationship between the agency and Band/Community representatives reflects the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, which emphasize the importance of Band involvement and decision-making.
Section 4
CFSGE recognizes and implements Section 4 of Ontario’s Child, Youth and Family Services Act (CYFSA) (S.O. 2017, c. 14, Sched. 1). At CFSGE, our Indigenous-specific teams have made Section 4 a regular part of daily service delivery, helping to establish positive relationships within First Nations communities.
Jordan’s Principle
CFSGE staff ensure Jordan’s Principle applications are completed accurately and with care. This support has played a vital role in preventing admissions and in helping families access financial assistance, respite care, therapeutic supports, and resources to meet their daily needs.
CFSGE staff also work collaboratively with Indigenous Services Canada to ensure children and families receive the services and supports they are entitled to without delay.
Customary Care
Customary Care is the care and supervision of a First Nations, Inuk or Métis child by someone other than their parent, provided according to the customs of the child/youth’s Band or Indigenous community.
CFSGE works in collaboration with First Nations Bands to establish Customary Care agreements that meet the needs of the family receiving service.