Kids Are Kids! ᐊᐘᔑᔕᐠ ᐊᐘᔑᔑᐏᐘᐠ

Kids in care are resilient. They are learning, growing, and healing. They are artistic. They are strong. But most importantly, they are just regular kids – kids who have passions, hobbies, and friends.

Every year on May 14, the Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies (OACAS) recognizes Children and Youth in Care Day, to uplift the voices of youth in care and celebrate them for who they are. In participation of this day, Tikinagan Child and Family Services is celebrating the #KidsAreKids campaign throughout the month of May. The campaign serves as a reminder to treat all children, youth and families equally, no matter their background. Everyone’s experiences look different, and that’s okay!

“I have been in the foster care system for over a decade. You go through a lot in care, but every kid still deserves the chance to be a kid,” said Nathan Linklater, member of Noodawishinaam Oshkiniigiwag (Hear Us Youth) from Sandy Lake First Nation.

Tikinagan’s youth team, Noodawishinaam Oshkiniigiwag (Hear Us Youth), is getting involved this month to share their stories and messages for current youth in care and the public. Youth team member, Nathan Linklater, explained that he joined the team for opportunities like this, to provide a voice for youth in care.

“I want to share my story to help youth who are going through hard times like I did…I want to give them a chance to be heard.”

Children and youth are the center of the Wee-Chee-Way-Win Circle of Care and part of our service model Mamow Obiki-ahwahsoowin, which means “Everyone working together to raise our children.” Our children and youth are supported by all parts of Circle of Care, including the community that surrounds them and becomes a part of their family.

This May, join us in showing children and youth in care that our communities are here for them, we support them, and we accept them for who they are.

Show your support and keep up with more messages from Tikinagan’s youth team by using the hashtag #KidsAreKids on social media and visiting Tikinagan.org/Kids.