The Yellowhead Tribal Services Agency Custom Adoption program focuses on providing permanency for first nation children who have been in long term Custom Care, YTSA strives to promote the adoption of first nation children by First Nation families.
Historically, through closed adoptions the majority of native children were adopted by non-native families. Today, many of these children, now adults, are finding their way home to their roots and families. Some are just looking to complete their lives. Others are returned wounded and looking for a place to heal.
In February 1997, Children's Services issued a policy directive that changed the adoption process in Alberta. The Directive required consent from Chief and Council for every adoption of a First Nation child.
This measure was implemented to preserve to child's cultural heritage and to maintain the very important connection to their family and community. Many First Nation children in care still live in non-native foster homes.
Program Objectives
The Custom Adoption Program is a First Nation culturally based program, originating from the traditions of aboriginal families keeping/raising a child in need.
The Custom Adoption Program is designed to be a natural extension of customary care and will become an important part of the overall Custom Care Program.
The Spirit of the "Openness" surrounding an adoption is a new concept within the field of Children's Services. The Program is the first of it's kind in the Province of Alberta and will set the standard for the development of First Nation community based programs.
Our Goal
The focus of the Open Custom Adoption Program is to provide permanency for the children who have been in long-term foster care, promote and adoption of First Nation children and to reflect the abilities and skills of the adoptive family rather than the disadvantages of the child.
The are 2 types of Custom Care Adoption
Open Custom Adoption
The child to be adopted will have child welfare status (a Permanent Guardianship Order or Agreement wit the Provincial Courts of Alberta).
Private Adoption
The child to be adopted will not have child welfare status. In most cases, parties who adopt through this process have had the child on a long-term basis.
What's different about this program?
First Nations take ownership of First Nations adoptions
Elder and local communities will be involved with the adoption process
Languages of the respective communities will be used
Cultural and traditional activities will be available to children and families.
Orientation for families include: Post-adoption supports, history of the community, teachings from the Elders with visual aids (pictures, stories, culture and language).
Special ceremonies to finalize and recognize the adoption will involve Elders, family and community.
If you would like additional information on the Child Protection Program and its services, please contact Phyllis Whitford, Program Supervisor or Devin Wog, Casework Supervisor at YTSA
E-mail: Phyllis@ytsa.ca
Devin@ytsa.ca
