First Nations of Northern Manitoba CFS Authority

Hope and Healing: Cree Nation Child and Family Caring Agency's Impact on Families in The Pas

The Cree Nation Child and Family Caring Agency

The Cree Nation Child and Family Caring Agency (CNCFCA), located in The Pas, Manitoba, is changing lives across seven First Nation communities through its culturally rooted programs. By focusing on family preservation, empowerment, and cultural revival, the agency has become a lifeline for families facing challenges such as addiction, poverty, and systemic barriers.

Family Enhancement Manager

At the heart of CNCFCA's mission is preventing family breakdown. Bobbi Faye Sinclair, the Family Enhancement Manager, has dedicated over ten years to working with the agency. "Our main goal is to prevent family breakdown," she explains. "We work with families to provide support through direct services or programming. Our prevention efforts aim to not only stop family separations but also revive our cultural teachings, language, and values."

Sinclair's team uses a strengths-based approach to identify the needs of families and create customized plans for change. This proactive approach ensures families have the tools they need to remain united, reducing the likelihood of children entering the welfare system.

A Mother's Journey to Transformation

One of CNCFCA's success stories is that of Eileen Nasekapow, a mother of six who has struggled with alcohol addiction since childhood. "I started drinking at 11 years old. Addiction has always been a part of my life," she says. Her struggles strained her relationship with her children, but CNCFCA stepped in to offer support.

Through the agency, Eileen receives home essentials and participates in activities that keep her engaged and motivated. "When I'm busy with these programs, I forget about drinking," she shares. Eileen's story mirrors the struggles of many parents in the community, and her progress is a testament to the agency's impact.

Fran Sinclair Dick

Executive Director Fran Sinclair Dick emphasizes that CNCFCA's work goes beyond addressing immediate challenges. "We empower families by guiding them and providing programs tailored to their needs," she explains. The agency offers parenting workshops, budgeting classes, and cultural programs where elders share their knowledge with young families.

One unique aspect of CNCFCA's approach is its commitment to keeping children in their homes. Instead of removing children when parents seek treatment, support workers step in to maintain a stable environment. "We want to keep children in their communities and homes. Removing them is always the last resort," Fran says. This approach helps families heal without disrupting their lives.

Elders: A Pillar of Strength and Wisdom

Elders play a crucial role in CNCFCA's success, sharing their wisdom and cultural knowledge with families. Peter Constant, a long-serving elder in the community, highlights the importance of this intergenerational connection. "Elders teach young parents how to care for their children and keep traditions alive," he says.

Peter believes the involvement of elders should be expanded. "Communities need to understand their collective responsibility in raising children, just like it was when I was young. Elders can help bridge that gap," he adds.

Creating a Brighter Future

CNCFCA's holistic approach is reshaping the narrative for many families in The Pas and beyond. By combining practical support, cultural revival, and prevention strategies, the agency addresses not only the symptoms but also the root causes of family challenges.

For parents like Eileen, CNCFCA offers hope and a path forward. For the broader community, it provides a blueprint for healing and growth grounded in tradition and respect. As the agency continues its work, it serves as a powerful example of how culturally informed care can create lasting change.