b'DEPARTMENT OVERVIEWCOOs Social Services Sectorhas outlined best practices and a plan for accessing social services BY TREVOR GREYEYESRuby Miller, Director of Social Services Fallon Andy, Social Policy AnalystI t is a challenge to access programWhile COO is not directly involved3)Child welfare and child well- funding for diverse First Nationsin the service delivery of any programs tobeing programs, including a communities of varying sizesindividual First Nations, Andy outlinescommunity assessment process.spread across a geographicallythree areas of concern for the Social diverse landscape, but its one the ChiefsServices Sector:The real problem is that the system of Ontario (COO) are willing to accept. and funding doesnt really start until the 1)Child welfare, early learning and Fallon Andy, Social Policy Analystchild is directly involved with the system at COO, is working on many of thesechildcare. in some way, says Andy, adding that issues and has outlined best practices and2)Social assistance with two tiers:First Nation communities can still accessa plan for accessing social services forOntario Works and the Ontariofunding for children and families before First Nation communities. Disability Support Program. finding themselves in a crisis.50l I ssue1 2021C hIefs ofo ntarIoA dvocAte magazIne'