I am a Witness: Resources

Best practices and guiding information regarding child welfare funding agreements, prevention services, Bill C-92, post-majority services, and compensation.

This page is an evolving resource so we will share new information when it is available to share.  

 

In the Spotlight

Spirit Bear Podcast featuring interviews between Dr. Cindy Blackstock and various experts in the field of child wellbeing. The purpose of these episodes is to dig deeper into evidence-based solutions for supporting First Nations young people and their families by dispelling myths and examining what actually works. 

 

Spirit Bear holding an eagle feather
Compensation Resources

Compensation Resources

On October 24, 2023 the Federal Court approved a $23.4B settlement for First Nations children and families who were harmed by Canada's discrimination in child welfare and Jordan's Principle. See the resources below for guiding information including information sheets, videos, and other resources.

Please note that the Caring Society's primary role in compensation was before the Tribunal, and we are not a party to the class action. The class action lawyers alongside the committees they create will take the lead role on compensation and the Caring Society has a limited role in compensation going forward.

If you are eligible for compensation, you do not need a lawyer to assist with this process. Please contact the Compensation Process and Support phone line for more information: 1-888-718-6496.

Financial Literacy Video Series

This series of graphic videos was developed by youth with lived experience with child welfare, on topics chosen by them: 

  • Choosing a Bank and Opening an Account 
  • Avoiding Predatory Financial Institutions 
  • Protecting Yourself from Scams and Fraud 

 

Warm thanks to Connor Lowes, who wrote the script and recorded the English videos, and to Byanka Petrin for the French translation and recording. 

Prevention Services and Action Plans Resources

Prevention Services and Action Plans

The First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission have created numerous documents set to provide First Nations with guided support through sharing resources aimed to share best practices of action plans, needs assessments, and prevention services designed by and for First Nations communities. The provided resources below share information about such practices. 

The Caring Society's Prevention Services infographic and an information sheet on liability for First Nations providing prevention services are also available.

Post-Majority Services

Guiding information on ensuring the wellbeing of First Nations young people aging out of child welfare. 

Kids Help Phone has information and supports available for First Nations youth and young adults who are leaving care or have left care. 

Movie still of Spirit Bear and Cindy the Sheep in the Tribunal
Bill C-92 Resources

Looking for Clarity in Canada's Funding Positions on Bill C-92

Guiding information on Bill C-92: An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families, including Caring Society information sheets and external resources. 

  • The Yellowhead Institute: The Promises and Pitfalls of C-92

    The ground-breaking recognition and fundamental shift Bill C-92 represents is necessary, and long overdue. The question remains, is it sufficient?
    Read the Reports

  • The Yellowhead Institute: 21 Implementation Strategies for Bill C-92

    Strategies to ensure ensure Indigenous visions of child welfare jurisdiction are realized.
    Read the Resource

  • FNCARES: Bill C-92 - The Good, The Bad & The Unknowns

    A panel discussion with Cindy Blackstock and Hadley Friedland.
    Watch the Video

  • Carrier Sekani Family Services: Six things you should know about Bill C-92

    A breakdown of what Bill C-92 will mean for those children living in care, and what it means for Carrier Sekani Family Services.
    Watch the Video

  • Cindy Blackstock: Indigenous Child Welfare Legislation - A Historical Change or Another Paper Tiger?

    Bill C-92 seems like good news but will it really build healthy families and, over time, reduce the over-representation of First Nations children in care or is it another colonial paper tiger?
    Read the Article