Programs
Our programs include prevention, intervention, (re)connection, care, and cultural support. We work with kohkoms, mosoms, and community members to support the children, youth and families in our care to ensure Nehiyaw ways of knowing and being are incorporated into all aspects of our work. ​​​​​
Placement Resources Unit
The Placement Resources Unit consists of the following program areas:
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Recruitment of Foster/Kinship Homes
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Licensing of Foster Homes
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Training for Foster/Kinship Parents
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Matching and Placement of children
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Supports to Foster/Kinship Parents Homes/Respite Providers
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The Placement Resources Unit Program strives to:​
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Provide the children with a parented family unit
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Provide temporary day-to-day care to children while permanency planning is occurring
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Work cooperatively with all interested persons towards a case plan
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Support the culture, ethnic heritage and societal values of the child’s biological family
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Become a Caregiver through the Placement Resources Unit Program. The primary goal of becoming a Caregiver is to provide a child with temporary family care until the child can return home to his or her natural family.
Band Designate
Our work in the child services sector began as a legal agency in 1998, since then, the agency's vision has been to be the voice of the children and families of the Maskwacis territory. Having a Band Designate has been integral as we actively advocate for First Nations children and families to have a connection with either their families, culture and community.
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Our Band Designate is essential in fostering ongoing, culturally respectful relationships. This role benefits children, youth, and families by providing vital support and representation.
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Working with a Band Designate can facilitate cultural connections for children, youth, and their families. Establishing and nurturing these relationships is crucial for the well-being of Indigenous children and youth, helping them stay connected to their heritage and community.
In times of crisis and challenge, designates can provide information and knowledge about family systems which may lead to emergency caregivers being identified as well as extended or kinship opportunities and support.
Band Designate in Calgary:
Harvey Coyote, IBSW, RSW
Band Designate-Calgary Region
1603-10 Ave SW
The Band Designate role significantly impacts Indigenous communities in several ways:
Cultural Preservation:
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By advocating for cultural continuity, Band Designates help preserve Indigenous traditions, languages, and practices.
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They ensure that children maintain connections to their community, family, and cultural heritage.
Empowerment:
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Band Designates empower Indigenous families by participating in child welfare decisions.
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They provide support during family group conferences and court proceedings.
Collaboration:
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The role fosters collaboration between agencies, ensuring culturally appropriate services for Indigenous children.
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Band Designates work closely with caseworkers, other jurisdictions, and Chief & Council.
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Child Well-Being:
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Band Designates prioritize the best interests of the child, emphasizing their cultural well-being.
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They contribute to permanency planning, adoption, and guardianship decisions.
Child Intervention
Child Intervention is a part of the Alberta government, sometimes referred to as child intervention services, child welfare, or child protective services, our primary focus with using child intervention is ensuring the safety and well-being of children.
Our caseworkers provide intervention services specifically within Samson Cree Nation.
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How do we respond to a concern?
We respond to every concern reported to us and work to support families in many ways. We cannot be involved in your family matters without your awareness. The length of our involvement can vary, but we always try to address your concerns as quickly as possible.
We make every effort to keep your child safely with you and your family at home. If a child needs to leave home temporarily, we work with you, your family, and your community to ensure the child remains connected to familiar people and places. This includes making changes so they can return home as soon as possible.
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If you have concerns about your child or another child’s safety, please call:
Toll-free: 1-800-387-5437 (KIDS)
Hours: 24/7, all year round
Guiding Principles
Our work in Child Intervention is guided by these key principles:
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Your child’s safety and well-being is the top priority.
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Your family is responsible for the care and supervision of your children. With community support, most parents can protect their children from harm.
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Keeping your family safely together is important.
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Your family can draw on informal community resources such as schools, public health, churches, youth groups, and other helping agencies to assist in caring for your children.
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All children and youth should be supported to maintain relationships that are important to them, be connected to their own culture, practice their beliefs and have a plan for their care.
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Indigenous experts must be honoured and respected in matters involving their children, youth, and families.
Group Care
Embracing Pimatisowin: Our Agency's Unique Approach to Group Care Homes
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At KCWS we believe that every child deserves not just a place to stay, but a nurturing environment that embodies Pimatisowin — the "Way of Life". In our group care homes, we've cultivated a culture-based program that goes beyond basic care; it's a holistic journey rooted in language, traditional practices, customs, and meaningful interactions.
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Hope is at the heart of our program. Children are encouraged to speak and learn their culture, fostering a deep connection to their identity and community. Elders and community members play pivotal roles, sharing their knowledge and teachings to guide the children on their path. We also employ group home staff whom are from the Maskwacis community, this fosters not only sharing of knowledge but also further promotes a connection to extended family.
Above all, our approach is grounded in relationships. Children learn not only from our staff but from each other, creating a supportive community where every voice is valued. Conflict resolution draws from traditional practices, promoting empathy and understanding.
At KCWS, Pimatisowin isn't just a concept — it's woven into the fabric of daily life. It's about empowering children to embrace their heritage with pride, equipping them with the tools to navigate the world while honoring their roots. Our group care homes are more than just shelters; they are sanctuaries of cultural learning, growth, and belonging.
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