ohpikihakan

Service provides:

• a program designed to meet the holistic needs such as housing, family connection, spirituality, and cultural connection of youth ages 13 to 17 in the care of Children's Services
• the opportunity to become a therapeutic caregiver who provides a safe and supportive home for youth

Includes:

• a province-wide initiative called Therapeutic Foster Care that is trauma-informed and embedded with culturally responsive services and Indigenous worldviews
• ensuring youth have supportive homes and regular contact with their family, culture, and community
• connecting with a youth mentor dedicated to their holistic health and wellbeing
• supports for caregivers - training to be the medicine for youth in their home; become ambassadors, allies, and advocates for youth wellness and healing; have peer support and professional training; each home will be connected to a therapeutic supervisor to support the day-to-day safety and wellness for youth

Ohpikîhakan translates into a child that is being raised in the Cree language. This name was gifted by Elder Dr. Leona Makosis to emphasize the importance of the relationship and connection to a child's culture and family.

• youth 13 to 17 years
• who are in the care of Children's Services

• 21 years and older
• residents of Alberta
• Canadian citizens, landed immigrants, or have Permanent Residency Status for at least 3 years; newcomers must have resided in Canada for at least 5 years
• who have the physical ability and mental wellness to care for youth ages 13 to 17
• have no significant life changes or events in the last 12 months that would impact their ability to provide care
• can provide 3 positive references
• engage with a youth’s family, culture, and community
• complete a SAFE Home Study
• and become licensed as a foster home

• visit website to sign up

• Indigenous Peoples - Parenting and Family Support
• Youth - Youth Housing / Group Homes

Closed statutory holidays.