"Taking care of our children is a cultural responsibility as ancient as each of our Tribes"

-(author unknown)

Child and Family Services is a critical component of our provided services. The "ICWA" Department grew as a direct result of the Indian Child Welfare Act, legislated in 1978 to meet the needs of Native Families.

The purpose of the ICWA Program is to ensure Indian Child Welfare compliance with State agencies. ICWA strives to utilize the extended family of the biological parents when engaging services.

Children are the most treasured among our community and it is up to the entire community to nurture and protect our children, promoting them to becoming healthy, productive adults. Members of Indian communities must share in this responsibility.

Our Mission Revolves Around The Following Principles:

Every child deserves to live in a family which provides a safe, nurturing environment
Preservation of community and family connections is very important to a developing child
Timely, effective involvement of our Child Welfare Department
Cultural and traditional values of the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians are the primary focus in placement of Maliseet children

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