The delegated social work team continued to provide services to our Gitxsan Nation throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The delegated social work team adapted their practice to align with COVID-19 protocols and provincial legislation by providing outreach to children, youth and families in the form of food hampers and COVID-19 kits . 

The COVID-19 pandemic had a detrimental impact on our Gitxsan nation, preventing   gatherings and the carrying out of our traditional laws.  

As a result of the pandemic many lives were lost, feasts were put on hold and children, youth were unable to access the natural transmission of traditional and ceremonies that normally support their children, youth, families and community. As the pandemic restrictions have subsided, GCFSS post pandemic response in 2022-23 will aim at providing additional supports through the creation of community based social work hubs that provide wrap around services through Gitxsan holistic wellness programs and services. This post pandemic response will include the hiring of additional team leaders and social workers to improve delegated social work service delivery within the 5 villages we serve.   

Advocacy Services

• We help parents understand their rights when children are at risk to be taken into care through MCFD and other Aboriginal Child & Family Services Agencies
• We ensure the Ministry of Children and Family Development has heard the client in regards to their rights
• We attend agency meetings or family conferences with families, regarding their children
• We advocate for children to remain with family through Extended Family Program
• We work with MCFD staff in developing permanency plans for Gitxsan children
• We provide follow up services as identified in the planning session
• Attend community with MCFD to support families during times of intervention
• Support youth with navigating life skills when they are no longer living at home