Ayás Mén̓men
Child & Family Services
Family Support Services
Manager: Jared Van Somer
Phone: 604-985-4111
Cell: 778-928-8448
Email: Jared_Vansomer@squamish.net
Manager: Squamish Valley – Sara Stevens
Phone: 604-362-8902
Cell: 604-892-7713
Email: Sara_Stevens@squamish.net
Our Family Service support teams offer supports located in the Squamish Valley and across the Lower Mainland. Our Family Service team is here to support Parents, Grandparents, extended family, and caregivers who are caring for the ménmen of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh úxwumixw. We look to our Elders and Knowledge Keepers to provide traditional teachings to help us ensure family services align with Sḵwx̱wú7mesh ways and traditions. We also offer support and guidance to families who are involved with
protective services as they address child safety concerns. We empower families on their healing journey as they navigate colonial systems with provisions of support and resources while encouraging our community partners to walk with us on the path of healing and learning. We believe that the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh stélmexw hold the answers, as we recognize the strength and ability that our families hold within themselves.
Support provided to families include:
- Creating a family wellness plan including family supports
- Intensive one-on-one support for those caring for children & youth
- Access to traditional knowledge through workshops, community events and our knowledge keepers
Support with connections to community resources such as:
- Housing
- Childcare & other developmental supports
- Mental health & counselling
- Intensive parenting support
- Advocacy whilst navigating external systems including health care & education
- Provide referrals to other Squamish Nation departments & support referrals to other community agencies
Nation Updates
New Executive Director of X̱etx̱ítayus Ch’áwch’aw (Corporate Services), Michelle Bryant-Gravelle
Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) is pleased to welcome Michelle Bryant-Gravelle as the new Executive Director of X̱etx̱ítayus Ch'áwch'aw (Corporate Services).
Hiy̓ám̓ Housing’s new Facebook page connects Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw Community to affordable housing
Hiy̓ám̓ Housing’s recently launched Facebook page is one more avenue connecting the Squamish Community with the not-for-profit housing organization.
Updates: Council Resolution on Public Safety
Council has declared a new State of Emergency in response to the toxic drug crisis and its impact on our people, families and communities.