DCYF is proud to announce a new partnership with the Central Council of the Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska (Tlingit & Haida) to provide Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) services. This agreement strives to support positive outcomes for tribal children by strengthening Native families and reuniting children with their relatives and communities.
Nearly 23 percent of Tlingit & Haida tribal citizens under the age of 18 reside in Washington State (approx. 1,600 children and youth). Tlingit & Haida Tribal families in Washington will receive services from the Tribe’s Family Services Division, based out of their recently opened Lynnwood office.
The newly signed Indian Nation agreement recognizes the government-to-government relationship between tribes and the state and ensures a collaborative approach to providing culturally sensitive and responsive services that prioritize the well-being of tribal children and families.
DCYF has entered into similar agreements with Washington State federally recognized tribes since 2010. These agreements clarify roles and responsibilities to enhance coordination and cooperation between tribes and DCYF in providing child welfare services to Indian children.
“We know that partnering with tribes results in far better outcomes for children and families,” said Tleena Ives, Director of Tribal Relations. “DCYF has a responsibility to ensure that tribes have the resources they need to provide quality services to their members.”
For more information on Tlingit & Haida's Child Welfare services, email wicwamail@tlingitandhaida.gov or call (907) 463-8020.
Information about DCYF’s Indian Child Welfare division can be found on the Office of Tribal Relations webpage.