Band Representative
The role of the First Nation Band Representative is to act on behalf of our children and our community with regards to child welfare matters. The Band Representative is the point of contact that any Child and Family Well-Being Agency within Canada must notify with concerns or involvement with any Georgina Island community member. Our Band Representatives are First Nation employees appointed by Chief and Council, not employees of the Child Well-Being Agencies. The Band Representative works with the agencies and families to address child welfare concerns. This often includes attending meetings with children, youth and families along with the agency workers, consultation and planning with the agency and families, ensuring that families receive culturally appropriate service, advocacy, and working with families to ensure that our children are safe and taken care of. In addition to resolving concerns, Band Representatives have the goal of working with agencies and families in a way that is respectful and allows for healing to take place.
Family Support
Our Family Support Worker works directly with children, youth, parents, families, and community in a way that empowers and strengthens our families. If there is child welfare involvement, our Family Support Worker can meet with the agency and families to address the concerns and create positive change. They may work with families who could benefit from parenting and family support. This can include home visits, one-on-one work, group work, community programs, workshops, advocacy, or connecting community members with additional resources.
Prevention Program
Our Prevention Program provides children, youth, and adults with community based programs to enhance the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being of our community members. Our program includes one-on-one work with the Prevention Worker, weekly groups, workshops, and support.
Inquest into the Death of Devon Freeman
From September 26th until its conclusion on October 21st, 2022, the jury for the Devon Freeman inquest heard testimony from many witnesses about Devon, his death, the circumstances and his care leading up to his death, the importance of community and culture and family, and things that could’ve been done and should be done. It was an inquest full of emotion, learning, acceptance, reflection, and forgiveness. These lessons were given to all those involved, and all those who watched, from Devon. His life, and his death, brought teachings to many. The Chippewas would like to extend the utmost thanks and love to Shannon Crate, our Band Rep, and Pamela Freeman, Devon’s grandmother. Their strength, courage, determination, and love brought about this entire process and forged the path for 75 jury recommendations to be made to help not only Indigenous children in care, but all children. The links below contains the verdict of the inquest and outline all 75 jury recommendations.