Calling all aunties, uncles, and grandparents to become a part of our mén̓men (children) support network. Join the Ayás Mén̓men (Child & Family Services) resident Elders and resource team to learn more about being a caregiver in our community. This event seeks to bring together community members from the Squamish Valley who are interested in supporting and caring for the Nation’s children.
Attend the upcoming Community Caregiver information session:
- Wednesday, December 3
- 5 – 7 pm
- Totem Hall, side room
All community members are welcome to attend, and no pre-registration required.
If you have any questions, please contact Erika Quilatan.
Erika_Quilatan@squamish.net
778-238-8927
———
We are asking Sḵwx̱wú7mesh community members to step forward to support our families, mén̓men and youth. Community caregivers provide a safe and supportive environment to our Sḵwx̱wú7mesh mén̓men and seḵw’í7tel (relatives) when they need us. We are looking for community caregivers both for short-term support and long-term care of our children.
What is a community caregiver?
Community caregivers provide a safe and supportive environment to our Sḵwx̱wú7mesh mén̓men (children) and seḵw’í7tel (relatives) when they need us.
Community caregivers can be:
- Sḵwx̱wú7mesh people
- Community members
- Individuals connected to the community and have a relationship with a child or youth.
What kind of support can a caregiver provide?
Short-term Support/ Emergency Placement
A caregiver can provide short-term support and are responsible for taking care of a child or youth on a weekend or for a few days. This will give the elhtách (parents), family, and other caregivers the necessary support in moments of need.
Long-term Care
A caregiver can provide long-term care and are responsible for the parental duties for a child or youth including ensuring their needs are met (supervision, food, home, clothing, etc.), providing a safe environment and ensuring a child spends time with their family.
How do I become a caregiver?
- Contact Ayás Mén̓men (Child & Family Services) and ask to speak with the resource social worker.
- You will be asked to complete an application package.
- Training is provided.
- We will conduct a home study with you and your family.
- You can specify if you would like to offer short-term support or provide long-term care to Sḵwx̱wú7mesh children and youth.
Training and support are major parts of being a caregiver. There are cultural support workers and resource social workers available to support the family, children and you.