Two Foster Families with 40+ years recognized

Tikinagan Child and Family Services recognized two foster families with more than 40 years of dedication with the agency at the Annual Chiefs Assembly in Thunder Bay, September 4-5.

Jean and Art Strang, Poplar Hill First Nation

Jean and Art Strang have dedicated themselves to fostering since December 10, 2003. Over the past 20 years, they have consistently provided more than 100 children a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment, showcasing their dedication and passion for fostering. Their dedicated service includes a wide range of placements, from short-term emergency care to nurturing children for several years in long-term placements. 

 Jean and Art have provided a loving and stable home environment for each child in their care. They have addressed the individual needs of each child, ensuring their well-being through medical attention, emotional support, and educational guidance. Their attention to detail and commitment to the children’s overall development is noteworthy. 

The positive outcomes observed in the lives of the children they have cared for speak volumes about their dedication. Feedback from care teams and the visible progress and well-being of the children in their care highlight the Strang’s significant contributions to the fostering community. 

Donnie and Elsie Roundsky, Wapekeka First Nation

Donnie and Elsie Roundsky of Wapekeka First Nation opened their home to children in their community on December 6, 2002. Their outstanding commitment and contribution to our children has been exemplary. Over the course of their remarkable 21-year career as dedicated Foster Parents, Donnie and Elsie have lovingly cared for more than 70 children, including a wide range of placements, from short-term emergency care to nurturing children for a couple of years in long-term placements. Many of whom still contact them as young adults and Elsie and Donnie seem to remember them all and all their personalities.  

Every child brought into their home was welcomed and treated just like a family member. They raised these children with the community and traditional way of life in the north. They were always at events, gatherings, going out to bush camp and every other aspect of life in Wapekeka First Nation. 

Elsie and Donnie have made an incredible impact on each on of these children and their community. Caring for and loving these children is second nature for them. But the positive outcomes observed in the lives of the children they have cared for speak volumes about their dedication. Seeing the children laugh and run around in the community, enjoying just being kids, is all anyone needs to understand the home they have given so selflessly. 

Donnie & Elsie’s unwavering dedication, compassion, and exceptional service make them exemplary representatives of foster parents and part of the circle of care. Their commitment to providing a supportive and loving environment for the children is commendable.