Bringing Our Voice to Children and Families
Asubpeeschoseewagong Aankaanotamage’win (Grassy Narrows Child and Family Advocates) is the social services department of Grassy Narrows First Nation. We serve all members of the community, on and off-reserve, with a focus on children, youth, parents, and caregivers. Rooted in Anishinaabe culture and values, we are committed to supporting families and fostering a strong, healthy community.
Our Mission
We aim to bring our children home and reduce the number of children in care. By offering advocacy and guidance, we help children, youth, and parents navigate child and family systems. Through our support, we ensure families have access to food security, transportation, home visits, and cultural teachings.
Our Vision
We believe in reclaiming our inherent jurisdiction to care for our children. Our goal is for every child to remain at home in the community, surrounded by family, friends, and leaders who uphold their cultural identity and heritage. Together, we work toward mino bimaatiziiwin (a good Anishinaabe life).
What We Do
The GNCFA provides holistic support to families through a wide range of services:
- Advocacy and representation in child welfare processes.
- Support for reunification of families.
- Cultural and traditional guidance, including ceremonies and land-based learning.
- Parenting and life skills workshops.
- Assistance with housing, food security, and emergency support.
- Referrals to health, education, and legal resources.
- Immediate crisis response and safety planning for families.
How We Can Help
Navigating child welfare systems can be overwhelming. We stand beside our clients, providing:
- Assistance with paperwork, legal aid, and transportation.
- Advocacy in meetings with Child and Family Services (CFS), housing, and education systems.
- Connections to Elders and cultural experts for ceremonies, teachings, and support.
- Counseling for trauma, grief, and family wellness.
- Respite care for caregivers.
- Support for special needs children and their families.
Our team listens, understands, and helps create tailored plans for each family, ensuring they are supported every step of the way.
Why Choose Us?
- Cultural Understanding: As members of the same community, we share the values, beliefs, and traditions of our clients.
- Holistic Approach: Our services address mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.
- Advocacy Expertise: We offer professional advice and guidance through complex systems, helping families overcome barriers to a better future.
- Community Focus: We are dedicated to the collective well-being of Grassy Narrows, with the goal of keeping children at home in their community.
Grassy Narrows First Nation Band Office is committed to the well-being of our community through holistic and culturally rooted services. Together, we celebrate our heritage, protect our lands, and support every member to thrive.