Customary Care
Customary Care means care provided in a way that recognizes and reflects the unique customs of a community.
The Southern First Nations Network of Care is committed to planning, developing and implementing customary care in Manitoba. For the Southern Network and our member Agencies, customary care means care provided in a way that recognizes and reflects the unique customs of a community.
Customary care preserves a child's cultural identity, respects the child's heritage, facilitates cross-generational connections, and recognizes the role of the community in raising its children.
Historically, customary care is a tradition of care that is provided by family and community. The First Nation community establishes the practice of customary care and the role of the community in raising its children.
Customary Care Initiative
In 2016/17, the Southern Network Customary Care Specialist, in collaboration with 4 First Nations Agencies mandated by the Southern Network, introduced the Customary Care Initiative in 6 First Nations in southern Manitoba through a community consultation process.
The Southern Network, in partnership with the Province of Manitoba and the other 3 Child and Family Services Authorities, are developing proposed legislation to recognize customary care in Manitoba. It will include amendments to The Child and Family Services Act to provide a legislative basis for supporting the provision of customary care for First Nations children through agreements and living arrangements.
Agencies & Communities
- Dakota Ojibway Child and Family Services
- Roseau River First Nation
- Dakota Plains First Nation
- Sandy Bay Child and Family Services
- Sandy Bay First Nation
- Sagkeeng Child and Family Services
- Sagkeeng First Nation
- West Region Child and Family Services
- Ebb and Flow First Nation
- Waywayseecappo First Nation