Our History

1960s-1970s: Early days

In 1961, band council member Mary Cross became the first welfare officer in Kahnawà:ke. Her role expanded beyond welfare, as she took on family counselling and prevention services. Recognizing the growing need for community support, the band council successfully secured funding from the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development.

Later, external responsibilities for social services shifted to a Quebec regional social service centre called ‘CSS Richelieu’ which hired Kahnawa’kehró:non as employees of that centre who worked in the community. This led to the official beginning of Kahnawà:ke Social Services and led to the creation of the New Day Program, which provided vital support for individuals struggling with addiction and recovery.

1980s: Regaining authority

By 1983, Kahnawà:ke became the first Indigenous community in Canada to regain authority over its social services through a delegated authority model, which provided flexibility to shape programs around the needs of the community. A key figure in this achievement was Donald Horne, who played an integral role in Kahnawà:ke securing this delegated authority.

In 1987, the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke approved the establishment of the Kahnawà:ke Shakotiia’takéhnhas Community Services (KSCS) Board of Directors to oversee and administer quality services to Kahnawa’kehró:non. The Board’s mandate focused on coordinating programs in areas of alcohol & drug abuse prevention, social services, and community health.

Services available in the 1980s included:

• Kahnawà:ke Social Services
• Kahnawà:ke Community Health Representatives
• Sata’shen:naien (Kahnawà:ke Alcohol & Drug Abuse Prevention Program)
• Making Adult Decisions (MAD) Teen Group
• Kahnawà:ke Resource Center 

In 1988, KSCS was officially established, bringing all of these programs together under one organization. Donald Horne, Joe Norton and many other community members were instrumental in making this vision a reality.

1990s: Evolving to meet community needs

In the early 90s, following the 1990 Oka Crisis, KSCS initiated a community consultation process to assess and identify a new approach regarding social services. This process emphasized involving the community members themselves in the care, health and safety of their well-being to ensure programs are responsive to their needs.

As KSCS expanded, additional programs were introduced and formally recognized, including:

• 1991: Administration
• 1992: Healing the Family Circle
• 1993: Organizational Development Services
• 1995: Adult Care Services
• 1995: Communications for Encouraging a Healthier Lifestyle
• 1995: Policy Unit
• 1996: Addictions Response Services
• 1999: Home Care Team
• 1999: Turtle Bay Elders' Lodge ‘Tiosehrohon Tsiiontienthkwa’

Growth and transformation

Even before its official formation, KSCS was deeply committed to promoting a healthier lifestyle for Kahnawa’kehró:non through promotion, prevention and wellness activities. In 1997, KSCS reaffirmed this commitment by adopting a new global vision: Tekaienawà:kon, which means “working together.” a vision for Kahnawa’kehró:non to come together and strengthen Kanien’kehá:ka values. 

2000s: Expansion continues

The 2000s marked a period of significant growth, highlighted by the construction and expansion of several key facilities. In 2002, the Turtle Bay Elders Lodge expanded with the addition of the Home and Community Care wing. The following year, in 2003, the Whitehouse was newly built, further enhancing community services and infrastructure.

2004

In the fall of 2004, the Making Adult Decisions (MAD) youth group celebrated its 20th anniversary. Open to youth ages 12–19, MAD provided a space for young people to have fun, socialize, learn to organize activities, participate in fundraisers, attend trips, and more.

The Independent Living Centre was established to support community members with severe and persistent mental health disorders. A 12-unit residential facility was constructed and quickly reached full capacity, offering much-needed housing and support.

The Healing & Wellness Lodge provided culturally rooted services, including sweat lodges, fasting groups, and the Where the Creek Runs Clearer group, which promoted healing and personal growth within the community.

2005

KSCS entered negotiation meetings with the Ministry of Social Services of Quebec to assume full responsibility for the delivery of social services within Kahnawà:ke, working towards greater self-governance in community care.

That same year, Environmental Health Services began addressing health and safety in the workplace under the direction of Onkwata’karitáhtshera.

2006

The Teen Social Club was launched as a pilot project to support teens with special needs, providing a safe and welcoming space where they met twice a week for social activities and life skills development.

The Turtle Bay Elders' Lodge (TBEL) dining room and kitchen underwent extensive renovations, increasing its capacity to prepare up to 100 meals at a time. This expansion allowed the Meals on Wheels program to serve even more elders in the community.

2007-2008

Home and Community Care Services (HCCS) achieved accreditation from the Canadian Council of Health Services, meeting national quality standards for health services.

In 2007, addiction was identified as the number one health and social issue in Kahnawà:ke. Prevention efforts focused on addressing this crisis through collaboration with the Community Prevention Task Force. KSCS continued to provide resources, improved access to health services, offered educational opportunities, and advocated for laws and policies that supported community health and safety.

A significant change in the Quebec Youth Protection Act allowed Support Services to intervene in situations that posed a high risk of abuse, rather than waiting until the abuse had taken place. This shift enabled earlier intervention and greater protection.

Additionally, the Healing and Wellness Lodge (Family Wellness Centre) was constructed, providing a dedicated space for cultural services and traditional healing.

2008-2009

The Prevention Team continued to facilitate Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) prevention and support, working to raise awareness, provide education and offer resources.

The Foster Care Program played a crucial role in ensuring that children in need of foster placement remained with their families or within the community, helping to maintain cultural connections and providing a stable, supportive environment.

2009-2010

Environmental Health Services (EHS) responded to the H1N1 influenza pandemic by adapting to the situation. The team participated in specialized training, conducted inspections, coordinated meetings, and refined action plans. These efforts helped strengthen the organization's preparedness for future public health emergencies.

HCCS continued its collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Society Suroît to support the growing number of community members affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Workshops were offered at TBEL, providing education, resources, and support for individuals and caregivers.

2010-2011

Assisted Living Services (ALS) faced challenges with its operating budget, struggling to meet the growing demand for client services, as the community’s needs continued to increase.

HCCS secured a seat on the Residential Care Facilities Regional Committee, which represents Indigenous elders' lodges across Quebec. This committee provided a platform to address the challenges of maintaining long term care facilities, particularly in response to government cutbacks.

2011-2012

HCCS and TBEL hosted a networking meeting with representatives from Kitigan Zibi and Kanehsatà:ke. These meetings fostered collaboration between Indigenous communities, allowing for the exchange of knowledge and best practice in program delivery of health services tailored to respective needs.

In January 2011, A’nowaráhne Residence opened, providing six two-bedroom apartments for community members aged 55 and older who are independent, self-sufficient, and in need of housing. This residence offered a safe and supportive living environment for elders in Kahnawà:ke.

Support Services noted the ongoing negotiations with Canada to secure sustainable funding for direct services for the community. These efforts aimed to ensure that services reflected Kahnawà:ke’s values and culture while maintaining self-determination in caring for the community.

2012-2013

ALS faced a significant challenge during the 2012-2013 fiscal year due to a budget cut that completely eliminated funding for essential respite services. However, with the support of Caisse Populaire Kahnawà:ke and their Community Development Fund, ALS was able to maintain this service while continuing negotiations with the federal government.

HCCS and TBEL received funding through the Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative, enabling them to offer weekly yoga classes throughout the fall and winter months to promote health and wellness among elders.

2013-2014

HCCS was recognized by the Health Council of Canada as one of 11 First Nations communities across the country offering innovative practices. HCCS was acknowledged for its culturally relevant continuum of care, utilizing an integrated case management approach to support community members.

Under Prevention Services, a new committee, the Safe Space Committee, was formed with a focus on education, awareness, and support regarding the impacts of homophobia on the 2SLGBTQI+ community. The committee’s goal was to educate KSCS staff and create a safe space for community members who identified as LGBT and may be seeking support.

Support Services was significantly affected by Law 49, a new legislation related to foster homes within and outside the community. The law had major implications, as it required that homes be unionized, which could potentially lead to Kahnawà:ke losing control over information pertaining to individuals in foster care.

2014-2015

As HCCS continued its accreditation with the Canadian Council of Health Services, it implemented enhanced modifications based on recommendations identified from Accreditation Canada. These modifications helped ensure the delivery of the highest quality of care to the community.

Support Services introduced the Recovery Management Group, a new program researched, developed and implemented by a member of Addictions Response Services. The group took a holistic approach to recovery addressing the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of healing.

2015-2016

Youth Protection and the Youth Criminal Justice Act continued efforts to assume full responsibility for duties assigned to the Director of Youth Protection under the Quebec Youth Protection Act. Kahnawà:ke aimed to exercise full authority and independence in youth protection, ensuring that the Kahnawà:ke Youth Protection Program followed procedures tailored to the community’s values and needs, distinct from those outlined in the provincial legislation.

A few years prior, concerns arose about the control of foster homes in Kahnawà:ke. However, after three years of negotiations, the community successfully retained jurisdiction and continued to manage its own foster homes. Additionally, daily compensation rates for foster caregivers were increased to align more closely with those offered to provincial foster homes, ensuring better support for families providing care.

2016-2017

One of the most profound impacts on KSCS in 2016 stemmed from the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society’s Canadian Human Rights complaint against Canada. The Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT) ruled that Canada had been discriminating against First Nations children and families.

KSCS played an active role in providing input on improving Child and Family Services (CFS) programs across Canada. KSCS believed that Kahnawà:ke could serve as a role model for other agencies through its integrated, multi-disciplinary community approach. The organization received increased funding for CFS programs this past fiscal year, enabling long-awaited plans to move forward and strengthening existing services.

In the same year, KSCS launched its second major Strategic Plan, establishing clear objectives for all service areas of the organization. A key outcome of this plan was the establishment of the Tsi Niionkwarihò:ten program in 2017. This initiative marked a significant achievement, as it reinforced the commitment to integrating Tsi Niionkwarihò:ten values, principles, and traditions into its daily work.

2017-2018

Turtle Bay Elders Lodge successfully secured nearly $240,000 in funding through Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada. This funding was instrumental in supporting essential repairs and maintenance to the facility, ensuring that the building met updated quality and safety requirements.

The entire organization worked towards implementing the 2016-2019 Strategic Plan. When the project began, it was faced with deficits, due to operational funding limitations. However, as a result of the Canadian Human Rights complaint, and the increase in funding, KSCS remained in great shape to implement these necessary projects.

2018-2019

During this period, KSCS underwent a comprehensive organizational review to evaluate our structure, staffing, processes and infrastructure. This review resulted in 35 recommendations aimed at enhancing our operations.

Following the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal complaint against Canada, KSCS anticipated significant increases in funding. These additional resources would allow us to invest in our family services team to improve our capacity and enhance the quality of services provided.

Additionally, ALS faced ongoing challenges due to stagnant funding for over a decade, despite a growing demand for services. Nevertheless, they remained committed, with the goal of enhancing services by addressing gaps in service to better meet client needs.

2019-2020

In March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted daily life, affecting the delivery of KSCS services. Despite the challenges, frontline workers remained dedicated to keeping the community safe. Some staff members even battled the virus themselves while continuing to serve.

The pandemic impacted the daily operations of EHS, requiring adjustments to help tackle the pandemic. In collaboration with the Kahnawà:ke Task Force, EHS and KSCS staff worked diligently to implement and maintain health and safety protocols throughout the crisis.

Internal Operations responded swiftly to support the organization and the community. They facilitated the transition to remote work by setting up technology, maintaining up to date public communications, and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of essential services.

In 2020, Patsy Bordeau, the team leader of Onkwata’karitáhtshera, retired after 25 years of service. Her leadership helped shape the team’s future, paving the way for Karonhiaroroks Picard to step in as the new supervisor.

2020-2021

As the COVID-19 pandemic continued to impact our community, KSCS remained committed to providing essential services. The organization played a crucial role in emergency response efforts, offering food, shelter, and psycho-social support, ensuring the health and safety of residents while continuing to deliver vital support services.

Over the course of the year, KSCS underwent internal restructuring to enhance service delivery. A new position, Director of Family Preservation (Clinical) Services was created, welcoming Cheryl Zacharie into the role. Additionally, the Manager of Support Services position was divided into two specialized roles to better address key service areas. Alana Kane became the Manager of Mental Wellness and Addictions, while Davis Montour took on the role of Manager of Child and Youth Wellness.

A major priority in youth protection began taking shape, with dedicated efforts to establish our own law in this area. KSCS is working towards appointing its own Director of Youth Protection, and the newly appointed Director of Family Preservation (Clinical) Services is eager and ready to tackle these critical initiatives.

To further support workplace well-being, the Health and Safety Committee was established this year. Its goal was to identify, resolve, and eliminate risks to the health, safety, and well-being of workers.

2021-2022

This year marked a significant shift for KSCS and the community as the organization moved forward with the negotiation of long-term reforms in Child and Family Services programming. With ongoing negotiations, additional funding was expected, which will play a crucial role in stabilizing the health and wellness of our children, families, and community members.

Throughout the year, KSCS remained a vital pillar of support, providing outreach services to those struggling with the ongoing impacts of the pandemic. KSCS also worked to ensure that mental health resources remained accessible during these challenging times.

Moving forward, KSCS welcomes Davis Montour as the new Director of Family Services (Operations), with Rebecca D’Amico stepping into his previous role as Manager of Child and Youth Wellness. 

2022-2023

A major milestone this year resulted from the decisions made in the Human Rights complaint against Canada. As a direct outcome, Canada increased funding to First Nations communities, addressing the funding gap that has existed for decades. This increase in funding has significantly expanded the operating budget, enabling greater support for the wellness of children, youth, and families.

The additional funding has fostered valuable partnerships. Notable initiatives included operational funding for the Kahnawà:ke Youth Centre, the reintroduction of the Drama Program in Kahnawà:ke, and funding to support activities at the Kanien’kehá:ke Onkwawén:na Raotitióhkwa Language and Cultural Center, among others.  

Furthermore, this funding has enabled KSCS to expand its operations by leasing the 3rd floor of the Kahnawà:ke Office Complex, allowing the organization to better serve the community and enhance service delivery.

Leadership and Legacy

Since its founding, KSCS has been led by just three Executive Directors, each leaving a lasting impact:

• Donald “Donny” Horne (Founding Executive Director, retired in 2003): Guided KSCS through its formative years.
• Linda Deer (2003–2012): Expanded and strengthened KSCS programs and services.
• Derek Montour (2012–Present): Continues to lead KSCS with a commitment to its mission and community.