Yukon First Nations tour Indigenous child welfare agencies in British Columbia

FOR RELEASE
April 9, 2018

 

The Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN) organized and led a delegation of Yukon-based child welfare professionals on a tour of six BC child welfare agencies run by local indigenous groups. The tour included representatives from CYFN, Ross River Dena Council, Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation, Champagne and Aishihik First Nations, the Government of Yukon and Canada.

 

The fact-finding mission supports Yukon First Nations’ interest in exploring options for child welfare services in the Yukon. The group toured agencies in Vancouver and Vancouver Island, representing a variety of delegated child welfare models. Rural and urban agencies were visited, including an agency run by the Squamish Nation and the Vancouver Aboriginal Child and Family Services Society.

 

Quote

 

“Children-in-care are one of the most vulnerable groups in our society and unfortunately First Nations are over-represented in this system. We are conducting due diligence and exploring best practices to inform Yukon First Nations of child welfare options.”

CYFN Grand Chief Peter Johnston

 

Quick facts

 

  • Delegation of child welfare services from a provincial or territorial government range in responsibility from voluntary services, such as supports and counselling, to guardianship and protection.

 

  • In BC, 23 Indigenous organizations have delegated authority from BC’s Ministry of Children and Family Development.

 

  • Yukon does not have a First Nations-led child welfare agency.

 

Contact:

Juliann Fraser
CYFN Communications Advisor
867-393-9200 ext 9223
juliann.fraser@nullcyfn.net