Where did the name “Chief Red Bear Children’s Lodge” come from?
Our traditional Indian ancestors have always passed down from generation to generation, knowledge of our culture and the Great Creations of our Creator. Knowledge of the spirit of the bear is very sacred. The bear is an animal that has many special and spiritual powers. When observed in the wild, the bear is a good sign and emulates powerful characteristics. Its gifts are wisdom, insight, introspection, caring, protection, and healing.
Always respect the bear when encountered, make an offering of tobacco, pray and give thanks to its spirit and make a special request.
Does this mean all the Cowessess children that are currently in government care are coming home to Cowessess on April 1, 2021?
On April 1 the Miyo Pimatisowin Act becomes law. Chief Red Bear Lodge can then begin to build its services and any protocols with provincial governments to begin the process of reviewing and transferring files to Chief Red Bear. We will meet each child and their caregiver before the transfer to make plans that are in the best interests of that child. Each child will need something different and many are happy and healthy where they are ( with relatives) and we will continue to support them to stay if it is a good situation.
Who should I call about Indigenous family and child related issues if I am from outside of Saskatchewan?
If you are from out of the province and this is an emergency you are to call your local mobile crisis line and continue to work with your provincial government. Please call our organization at 1-855-712-2327 (BEAR) or email us at contactus@redbearlodge.ca for us to be included in the process alongside you and your family.
As a parent, am I entitled to get my children back from the system now?
If your life circumstances have improved and everything in your life would support the love, health and safety of your children we work with you to assess if this is the right time for both you and your child to be reunited.
I am a foster parent taking care of a Cowessess child, what happens now?
We will be reviewing each child’s file over the next year. We will send out regular communications so you know what stage we are in. If the child with you is considered to be in the best place they should be, we will work with you and the Ministry of Social Services about future planning.
If I live in another province can I receive healing and prevention services?
Yes, as of April 1st all Cowessess people can access these services. They are being created and built right now and we will let you know through our website as each program or service begins. If you need support call us anytime and we will try our best to find things in your area that can be of help.
What is the difference between Sacred Wolf Lodge and Chief Red Bear Children’s Lodge?
Chief Red Bear Children’s Lodge is the big Lodge – it holds all the services and programs and Administration.
One of the services is a family Healing Home called Sacred Wolf Lodge where we bring families into our care for up to a year to heal, learn and grow as parents and as a family. This model ensures that children are not separated from their parents in times of crisis.
Sacred Wolf Lodge is supported by the Kokums program. Kokums add the extra love and attention that many families need to resolve trauma and negative impacts from history.
If I have never been to my home reserve, can I come and receive a service?
Yes! Welcome home to Cowessess. We would love to meet you and see you! We will tour you around and show you what we have to offer. We are planning Family Culture Camps, Welcoming Home Ceremonies and you are always welcome to PowWow Days.
If I disagree that Chief Red Bear Children’s Lodge has made with my family and I cannot work it out with them in a good way who will hear me?
Eagle Women’s Tribunal has been set up through Chief and Council to hear citizen issues including decisions that are made through the Miyo Pimatisowin Act. It is an independent review committee that uses traditional and modern methods to have all people surrounding an issue be heard and to come to good place of understanding on matters of conflict.
When Will Chief Red Bear Children’s Lodge be fully operational?
We are currently in start-up to hire staff , train and develop programs. We will offer prevention and healing supports across Canada starting in 2021. Intervention services will begin on-reserve in the fall 2021. We have a 5 year plan to be fully functioning by 2026 with offices on Cowessess, Regina and possibly in another province if needed.
I am a social worker and I need to get in contact with someone about a Cowessess child?
Please contact us through our contactus@redbearlodge.ca and someone will be in touch with you on the protocol and process.
