An unfortunate truth for most First Nation communities is the importance of the local social services program plays in the livelihood of the members. As provincial social policies become more proactive across the country, First Nations and INAC must develop a more modern approach to providing social assistance. Chignecto has worked consistently with the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nation Chiefs to research these new models and develop ones that will fit the needs of First Nation social programs. Chignecto has undertaken the following work in relation to social:

• Research
• Comparative Studies
• Situational Analysis
• Cost-benefit Analysis
• Policy and Manual Development

Examples of our work include:

Advice on devolution of Child and Family Services from Health Labrador Corporation to the Innu of Labrador. 2004 to present.

An Tobique Child and Family Services Agency Review. Chignecto conducted interviews, file reviews, and a process and budgetary analysis and developed recommendations for program improvement. (2006)

Elsipogtog Child and Family Services Agency Review. Chignecto conducted interviews, file reviews, and a process and budgetary analysis and developed recommendations for program improvement. (2005)

Income Security Reform Research Project – Comparability of on- and off-reserve services, benefits and costs. Prepared for the Atlantic Policy Congress. (2003)

Provided technical advice to the Mushuau and Sheshatshiu Innu Healing Strategies, both which involved the development of an integrated family treatment and social program model. (2001-2003)

Development of a Policies and Programs Manual for Social Programs On-Reserve to replace the outdated INAC manual. Prepared for the Atlantic Policy Congress. (2002)

Provided technical advice to the start-up and ongoing operations of the CharlesJ. Andrew Youth Restoration Centre. Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation. (2002)