April 23, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mikisew Cree First Nation Establishes Delegated First Nations Agency to Deliver Culturally Grounded Child and Family Services
Fort Chipewyan, AB – April 23, 2025 – Mikisew Cree First Nation is proud to announce the official establishment of its own Delegated First Nations Agency (DFNA): the Mikisew Awasis Kisiwatsowin Society. This important milestone marks a new chapter in the Nation’s path toward self-determination and the delivery of culturally grounded child and family services.
The Mikisew Awasis Kisiwatsowin Society will operate under provincial legislation and initially provide services to on-reserve families, with plans to extend support to off-reserve members. The agency will offer a range of supports, including child intervention, kinship/foster care supports, permanency planning and cultural supports, all delivered through a lens of Mikisew Cree’s values, language, and traditions.
Chief Billy-Joe Tuccaro of Mikisew Cree First Nation stated:
“Our children deserve to grow up surrounded by the warmth of their community, grounded in our culture, stories, and ways of knowing. With this agency, we are reclaiming our responsibility to care for our children in a way that reflects our Nation’s vision for the future.”
Charlene McGrath, Executive Director of the new agency, added:
“Our work will be trauma-informed, strengths-based, and deeply rooted in Mikisew Cree teachings. We are committed to walking alongside families with respect, compassion, and a strong sense of cultural identity.”
This initiative results from meaningful collaboration with the Province of Alberta, Indigenous Services Canada, and dedicated leadership within the Mikisew Cree First Nation. Community engagement sessions will be held throughout May in Fort Chipewyan and at off-reserve locations to share more information and hear directly from members.
The Mikisew Awasis Kisiwatsowin Society is expected to begin accepting referrals and delivering child intervention services as early as July 2025. Community members are encouraged to contact the agency with questions or to learn more about how the agency can support children and families.
Media Contact:
Charlene McGrath, Executive Director
Mikisew Awasis Kisiwatsowin Society, MCFN
C: 780-742-4144
E: charlene.mcgrath@mikisewcree.ca