“Our alternative care parents help Anishnawbek children stay connected to their culture, communities, and extended families during times when their biological parents face challenges or are unable to provide care themselves,” said Kerry Francis, Chief Executive Officer of Nogdawindamin.
The full text of the news release follows:
October is Alternative Care Appreciation Month and on Saturday, October 23rd, Nogdawindamin Family and Community Services held recognition events for the agency’s Alternative Care parents at three sites across the North Shore area.
Celebrations took place at Nogdawindamin offices in Batchewana First Nation, Serpent River First Nation, and Sudbury. The proceedings were partly virtual and included presentations and cultural teachings, with a keynote address delivered by comedian, actor, and Hollywood stuntman Conway Kootenay. Each event concluded with a socially distanced come-and-go barbecue.
“In October, it is very important to us as an agency to take the time to say ‘Chi-Miigwetch’ to all of our Alternative Care parents and really recognize them for the care and support they provide,” said Kerry Francis, Chief Executive Officer of Nogdawindamin. “Our Alternative Care parents help Anishnawbek children stay connected to their culture, communities, and extended families during times when their biological parents face challenges or are unable to provide care themselves.”
At the end of September 2021, there were 165 children living with Alternative Care families across Nogdawindamin’s service area, which stretches from Greater Sudbury to Sault Ste. Marie. As service pressures continue to grow, more Alternative Care homes are being sought across the region.
“We’re incredibly fortunate to have so many special people who have stepped forward to open their homes as Alternative Care parents—but we need more,” said Heather MacLary, Protection Resource Manager with Nogdawindamin. “Whether it’s for a longer period or as little as a weekend, every Alternative Care parent makes a difference to a child who needs them.”
Alternative Care parents with Nogdawindamin receive ongoing support from the agency that includes financial remuneration, assistance from support staff, and training and education. Alternative Care families also benefit from cultural teachings and are invited to take part in numerous cultural events throughout the year.
For more information on the Alternative Care program and how to become involved, please visit Nogdawindamin’s website, email [email protected] or phone toll-free at 1-800-465-0999.