NCFST Announces Family-Based Homes for Human Trafficking Survivors and At-Risk Youth

Press Release

April 17, 2023

[Toronto, ON] – Native Child and Family Services of Toronto is proud to announce family-based homes for human trafficking survivors and at-risk youth. These homes provide a safe and supportive environment for young persons who have experienced trauma and need wraparound support.

“A family-based home that provides culturally grounded wellness and healing is what our vulnerable youth need that are at risk of or survivors of human trafficking.” said Jennifer Turner, Director of Child and Family Wellbeing. “They must have access to security, nurturing and a culturally safe space to begin healing from the trauma they have experienced.  NCFST is pleased to have the opportunity to develop this home for them.”

“Family based care is Indigenous care. We are honoured to provide culturally grounded, trauma-informed support to youth as they stabilize and heal from human trafficking, trauma, and the ongoing impacts of colonization in ways that are aligned with our culture and wellness practices.” said Melissa Hamonic, Director of Holistic Services at NCFST.”

In these homes, Indigenous youth receive, wholistic support around the clock from a trained and dedicated live-in community caregiver. These caregivers maintain a safe and supportive home while acting as role models, assisting youth with life skill building as they work towards self-sufficiency and independence.

Native Child and Family Services of Toronto believe that family-based homes are a better option than other types of residential placements, such as group homes or institutions. Community homes provide a more intimate and personalized environment. With a low resident-to-caregiver ratio, caregivers and support workers can respond to the individual needs of youth – their emotional, mental, physical and spiritual needs. Additionally, family-based homes are often located in residential neighborhoods, providing youth with a more natural and integrated living experience.

NCFST is seeking dedicated and compassionate individuals to serve as full-time live-in community caregivers in these family-based homes. The ideal candidate will have experience working with at-risk Indigenous youth and survivors of human trafficking and be committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for our young people.

If you are interested in becoming a community caregiver, please visit our website for more information and to express your interest.

Email: [email protected]

About Native Child and Family Services of Toronto

Native Child and Family Services of Toronto (NCFST) is a multi-service urban Aboriginal agency providing holistic, culture-based programs and services for Aboriginal children and families. NCFST strives to provide a life of quality, well-being, healing, and self-determination for children and families in the Toronto urban Aboriginal community. We do this by implementing a service model that is culture-based and respects the values of Aboriginal people, the extended family and the right to self-determination.

CONTACT INFORMATION
Freida Gladue
Manager of Communications
(437) 244-2816

IHT5