Therapeutic Foster Care - Calgary - Foster Caregivers

Program Description:

Our Therapeutic Foster Care Program addresses the need for a culturally informed therapeutic model in which the lived experiences of Indigenous children are paramount. The program considers cultural knowledge to be the foundation upon which family-based care is built.

The Significance of Home Fire Keepers:

Home Fire Keepers is derived from the ceremonial concept of ‘tending the Home Fires.’ Tending the Home Fires reflects the aspects of building community for those who have experienced disconnection from community and culture. Our definition of Home Fire signifies a vital or creative center that keeps a feeling of connection and hope in daily life.

Role Summary:

The Home Fire Keeper will provide in-home care to young people who have experienced a disconnection from their community and culture The caregiver will tend to the emotional, spiritual, physical and cognitive development of the child by helping to find positive reconnection. 

Expectations:

Home Fire Keepers are fully supported by a team of youth specialists, cultural leads, and a clinician. Wood’s Homes’Home Fire Keepers are:

• Highly-valued partners and key contributors in the planning and delivery of the service as collaboration and transparency drive communication.
• Learners who strive for continuous improvement and growth. They are well-trained, well-supported, and well-grounded in feeling safe and gaining knowledge and competence.
• Provided with knowledge, skills, proactive support, and crisis intervention 24/7 as well as regular respite.
• Supported by cultural supports including Elders, knowledge keepers, cultural allies, and community members with culturally competent responses and intervention within appropriate protocols.
• The centre of the circle of care surrounding the child or youth with a Treatment Team.
• Responsive and relationally attuned caregivers with an understanding of trauma, healthy development, positive parenting, and quality caregiving.

Requirements:

• Home Fire Keepers are required to be available in their homes.
• Home Fire Keepers will have previous experience caring for youth and managing challenging behaviours.
• Participation in extensive training prior to client intakes.

Compensation:

• Foster Caregivers will receive tax-free daily compensation starting at $110.00/child.
• Participation in training will be compensated.
• Compensatory increases based on years of service.