Dakota Ojibway Child & Family Services

Foster Care

Agency philosophy

DOCFS ensures that all children placed in foster care are provided with a safe and loving environment.

An environment that meets the child's emotional, mental, physical, educational, social, cultural, and spiritual needs.

The Agency encourages placement with extended family; however, where that is not possible, every effort will be made to place the child within their home community or with a First Nation family. The recognition of the child's cultural heritage is of utmost importance and will always be considered when placing a child.

What Is Foster Care?

Foster care is providing a temporary, loving home for a child who has been separated from his or her natural family.
Foster care is accepting a child as part of your family.
Foster care is respecting a child's feelings, beliefs, and cultural background.

Who Are Foster Children?

Foster children usually reside in or originate from one of the Dakota Ojibway Tribal Council communities and range in age from newborn to seventeen (17) years.

Children may require foster care for a number of reasons. It may be because their natural family is experiencing difficulties or because they have been abused, neglected, or abandoned. Some foster children have special needs due to a physical disability or emotional challenges that may require more care and attention than their natural family can provide.

Adolescent children often come into care because their parents are unable to manage behavioural issues that arise during the teen years.

How Long Will The Foster Children Stay?

The length of time children remain in care depends on their particular circumstances. Some children require emergency care for a day or two, while others require longer-term care ranging from a few weeks to several years. In some cases, children may be placed in permanent foster care until they are ready to live independently.

Financial Support

Foster parents receive a daily allowance to assist in caring for the child. DOCFS follows the Provincial Chart of Accounts, which outlines what is covered within the daily rate.

Other expenses, such as registration for sports, recreational, or other activities, are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Who Is Eligible To Become A Foster Parent?

Couples or single individuals, with or without children, may apply to become licensed foster families provided they have adequate space, dedication, and an understanding of the importance of maintaining a child's connections to their community and cultural background.

Role Of The Foster Parent

In order to meet the child's needs, the foster parent is expected to provide:
Physical care
Emotional care
Educational support
Spiritual and cultural support
Recreational and social opportunities
Connection to their family and/or community
Assistance in preparation for transitions or moves
Licensing Requirements

The Agency has specific requirements that must be met to ensure the child is placed in a safe and secure environment.

Complete An Application Form, Including:

Criminal Record Check for all adults living in the home
Child Abuse Registry Check for all adults living in the home
Prior Contact Check with all Child and Family Service Agencies for all adults living in the home
Medical checks for all applicants
Physical Requirements Checklist
Four written references or approval from the local CFS Committee
Completed and approved Foster Home Study

Where To Apply

If you believe you have the time and commitment to become a foster parent, contact your nearest DOCFS office. A Foster Care Worker will explain the foster parent program and process in detail and answer any questions you may have. A list of all offices is available on the back of the pamphlet.

foster care Brochure

For more information, download our brochure.