The family preservation program focuses on crisis prevention and reunification services for Native American families. Family Preservation is a need-based program, with a strong emphasis on home visitation.

Offered by the department of family advocacy, the family preservation program is designed to promote family strength and stability, enhance parental functioning and protect the children of families living within the Chickasaw Nation service area. Program focus is on prevention, early intervention and working with Native American families as partners, to identify and utilize family strengths to assist them in meeting their needs.

Limited financial assistance for crisis situations that arise such as; rent, rent deposits and utilities is available for families who qualify. Qualification is determined on a case-by-case basis. Assistance is provided with the goal of preserving and strengthening the family, and preventing abuse or neglect.

Through the Family Preservation Program, the Chickasaw Nation Department of Family Advocacy offers “Children A Rewarding Experience” (CARE) Parenting Classes for any individual who desires to strengthen and enhance his or her parenting skills and knowledge.

• CDIB
• Income verification (including other income, child support)
• Social Security cards for all household members
• Monthly budget
• Rental letter from landlord
• Utility deposit verification

An intake form and a service agreement form are required as part of the application process for family preservation services.

• Must reside within the Chickasaw Nation boundaries
• Family must be at-risk of removal
• Must have Native American child in home
• Must have an identified need
• Must be willing to participate

CARE Parenting Classes

CARE parenting classes are offered several times per year and are open to anyone who impacts the lives of Native American children. The classes meet for eight consecutive weeks, one night a week for two hours. The parenting classes consist of topics ranging from prenatal care, child abuse, hygiene care, discipline, nutrition, environment, domestic violence, anger and stress management to budgeting skills.

Persons participating must attend each session for credit and may miss one session but must make it up; two or more absences will automatically disqualify persons for certification of completion.

The Family Preservation Program, offered by the department of family advocacy, is designed to promote family strength and stability, enhance parental functioning and protect the children of families living within the Chickasaw Nation service area.  The program focuses on prevention, early intervention and working with Indian families as partners, to identify and utilize family strengths to assist them in meeting their needs. Limited financial assistance for crisis situations that arise as to rent, rent deposits and utilities is available for families who qualify, on a case-by-case basis, through the program for crisis situations. Assistance is provided with the goal of preserving and strengthening the family and preventing abuse or neglect.