Mission

The goal of Fort Sill Apache Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) is to protect the best interests of Fort Sill Apache children, and to promote the stability and security of tribal families. The FSA ICWA program works with Fort Sill Apache families in the prevention of the break-up of families and takes those actions necessary to ensure that children who are removed from their homes as a last resort are reunified with their families – whether reunification is with parents or other relatives.

Services

The FSA ICWA provides the following:

  • Regular monthly contact with families at risk families.
  • Support counseling for families.
  • Referrals or services on a case by case basis to prevent the removal of Fort Sill Apache children from their home
  • Certification of foster homes for placement of a child.
  • State court intervention for FSA tribal child welfare cases with ICW Caseworker involvement through the whole process of OKDHS and State Court. To ensure the Indian Child Welfare Act is followed.
  • Foster Care Program
  • Certifies individuals who want to become Foster Care Providers for our tribal children who are in state and/or tribal custody. If you have the time to spend with a child, can pass a background check, have room in your home, have a desire to help children in need and are able to provide a safe and loving environment, then please contact our office and begin the application process.
  • Regular contact with families
  • Support counseling with foster families
  • Monthly visits with children in ICW custody
  • Referrals or services on a case by case basis to prevent the removal of Comanche children from their home
  • Promoting “Safe & Stable Families” (Title IV B)
  • Certification of foster homes
  • Foster home assessments and certification
  • State court intervention for child welfare cases

Eligibility

A home with Fort Sill Apache child(ren) who is/are enrolled or eligible for membership with the Fort Sill Apache Tribe (Birth to 17 years or 18 years if still in school).

Service Area

Nationwide

Contact Info

Brian Wahnee
Coordinator

P. 580-588-2298  x2263
C. 580-699-1125
E. Brian.wahnee@fortsillapache-nsn.gov