General satisfaction found in Manitoba native kinship program.

A study conducted by the Centre for Excellence in Child Welfare reports "general satisfaction" with the kinship care program in Awasis Pimicikamak Cree First Nation Kinship Care Program, a northern Manitoba community. However, the community's lack of resources is a problem.

The study finds that providing kinship care is part of their culture and traditions. Many foster parents reported they had also experienced kinship care in the past and believe they should carry on this practice.

The study identified a number of families who provided kinship care to the community over a lifetime. Their commitment goes well beyond expectation of foster parents in a non-reserve setting.

"These care givers appear to be truly committed to the child and the continuation of a valued cultural practice." The staff, and kinship foster parents identified a "connectedness" between the child, the caregiver, and the community which was reflected in the emotional bond between the child and caregiver, and the child's or youth's connection to culture, language, and community. The majority of children and youth reported being able to communicate in their indigenous Cree language because they remained in their community.

All participants, including the children and youth, reported positive outcomes as a result of the kinship placement. These outcomes include improved school performance, and a decrease in problem behaviours.

The practice was also seen as helping to promote children and youths' understanding and acceptance that they could not live with their biological parent. Generally, children had some contact with their biological family.

The researchers report that community and agency operate in a context of severe resource limitations which affects the quality and quantity of service provision, recruitment and hiring (of staff and foster parents), and training of foster parents. "Typical" foster parent issues such as recruitment, training, and coping with care giving demands confront these foster parents. The members of the community have differing opinions on as remuneration for care giving remain and many believe relatives should continue to care for their own corresponding financial support. The researchers included: Alexandra Wright, Diane Hiebert-Murphy Janet Mirwaldt, George Muswaggon.

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