Words Ashley Morris
Photo NILTUO Child & Family Services Society
At NIȽ TU,O, we use the word ŚTEṈISTEL for our Family Support Workers (FSWs) — and for good reason. ŚTEṈISTEL means “walking forward together” in SENĆOŦEN. This name reflects the relationship our FSWs build with the families they support and the forward movement they strive for in every step.
Now that we’ve introduced the meaning of the word, you might be wondering what this role involves in practice.
What does a ŚTEṈISTEL do?
Your ŚTEṈISTEL is your primary point of contact. They support you to identify your goals, and then help you access resources and put plans into action to reach those goals and needs.
FSWs are a vital part of the NIȽ TU,O care team. They work alongside NIȽ TU,O ₭EŚENTEL (Social Workers) and, when needed, the Ministry of Child and Family Development (MCFD), to support families in building safe, stable and connected home environments. While a ₭EŚENTEL may help with specific assessments or planning, a ŚTEṈISTEL is often the person families connect with most frequently. You don’t have to be working with a ₭EŚENTEL to be matched with an FSW.
How can my ŚTEṈISTEL support me?
Support looks different for every family. A healthy family often starts with a safe home, and your ŚTEṈISTEL can arrange practical home supports to maintain your home, such as pest management or garbage removal. They can also assist with completing applications for housing or community programs, including Sweet Dreams, Safe Sleep, which has provided clean, safe beds for families since 2016.
Support can be simply having someone to talk through challenges with and who listens without judgment. Trust and connection are just as important as offering services and resources. Our FSWs take the time to understand what matters most to you and your family so that they can help you take meaningful steps forward.
Your ŚTEṈISTEL is also there to help you navigate complex and confusing systems. When requested, they can accompany you to important appointments, such as meetings with MCFD or legal aid. They also support youth in planning for independent living, through Youth Agreements, and the transition into adulthood.
FSW In Community Day
To make support as accessible as possible, NIȽ TU,O hosts recurring FSW In Community Days in Paquachin, Tseycum, and T’Sou-ke. During these visits, families are welcome to visit our ŚTEṈISTEL to ask questions and discover what resources might be the right fit. By meeting families in their own communities, we reduce barriers and create opportunities for connection in a familiar environment.
Walking Forward Together
At NIȽ TU,O, we believe support is rooted in connection and community. When you work with a ŚTEṈISTEL, you don’t have to navigate these systems alone; you have someone to walk alongside you at your own pace with respect and care.
If you think a ŚTEṈISTEL could support you or your family, please reach out. For confidential intake, call 250-544-1400.
