Foster

Join our family. Open your home, make a difference in a child’s life.

Many children and youth need loving, supportive foster parents and families to provide a safe place when they can’t live at home. Dilico foster parents come from all ages, backgrounds, and a variety of life stages. They are caring, loving, team-orientated individuals who lead healthy lifestyles and are committed to making a positive difference for a child.

It takes a community to raise a child.

Dilico’s Foster Care Program is guided by the Mikinaak Service Model that was created by the Elders and Chiefs within the Robinson Superior Treaty Area. It recognizes culture and traditions of all Indigenous nations.

2021 Foster Care Brochure

Choose to make a difference in a child’s journey.

Dilico Supports You the Entire Way on Your Foster Parent Journey

Children have all different needs and come from several different home environments. Dilico works with our foster parents every step of the way and provides on-going support to every individual child’s needs, Dilico Anishinabek Family Care gives on-going support for all family members including its foster parents. Staff provides a wide variety of supports that includes cultural education, 24-hour on-call support, and professional support staff.

What type of support is provided for Foster Parents?

Learning and educational training
Cultural education and activities
Professional support staff assigned to your home
24-hour on-call support
Mutual support and networking opportunities
Financial support
First Nation Communities

We are seeking safe, loving and committed Caregivers for our children. Become a Mikinaak Caregiver.

FAQ’s About Becoming a Foster Parent?

What is a Foster Parent?

Our foster parents offer their home to help children feel safe, secure, and loved in the middle of very challenging circumstances. Foster Parents have a tremendous part to play in these situations, and help children thrive. When a child is placed in the care of Dilico Anishinabek Family Care, Alternative Care Families in Thunder Bay and the district provide a safe and caring temporary home for a child.

Different types of Alternative Care include:

Emergency
Mikinaak Customary Care Home
Respite
Specialized

Who can be a foster parent?

Dilico’s Alternative Caregivers are caring, loving, team-orientated individuals who lead healthy lifestyles and are committed to making a positive difference for a child. Caregivers are individuals who are committed to meeting physical, emotional, spiritual and cultural needs of a child.

Alternative Caregivers recognize the importance of a child’s connection to family, extended family and communities. It’s important to demonstrate a willingness to learn and appreciate Anishinabek culture.

Why be a Foster Parent?

To keep a child safe To make a difference in a child’s life To be a part of a team that is helping to build a strong foundation for a child and their family An opportunity to learn about the Anishinabek culture and way of life To provide a safe and loving environment to help a child grow.

What are the different kinds of foster care?

When a child is placed in the care of Dilico Anishinabek Family Care, Alternative Care Families in Thunder Bay and the district provide a safe and caring temporary home for a child.

Different types of Alternative Care include:

Emergency
Mikinaak Customary Care Home
Respite
Specialized

How do I get started to become a foster parent?

Give us a call.

Dilico- Main Offfice
Phone: (807) 623-8511
Toll-Free: 1-855-623-8511

Dilico- District Offices
Whitesand District Office
Phone: (807) 583-2013
Longlac District Office
Phone: (807) 876-2267
Mobert District Office
Phone: (807) 822-2521
Nipigon District Office
Phone: (807) 887-2514

Is it challenging to be a foster parent?

Foster parenting is challenging as it is rewarding. You are having an impact on the lives of children and youth in a very significant way. What we must realize is every child is different, and sometimes behaviours can be difficult based on the situation they come from. Dilico is there with you every step up the way to provide support during the challenging times.

Where can I find information about becoming a foster parent?

resources

Do I need to be married to be a foster parent?

No, Single individuals and unmarried couples can become foster parents.

What types of things should I expect to provide for as a foster parent?

Love, care and support is number one, along with food, clothing, shelter and safety.

Will I receive support as a foster parent?

Absolutely. You will be assigned a case worker that will help you as you take on this new journey. There is also training sessions available. Financial support is also provided.

Resources