Protecting and Supporting Families

Social Services

The Social Services Department of the Native Village of Barrow (NVB) plays a crucial role in protecting children and supporting families within the tribal community. Our mission is to ensure the safety, well-being, and cultural connection of children while working toward strengthening family units. Our department is guided by the principles of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) and strives to preserve the integrity of families, prevent the breakup of tribal families, and maintain children’s ties to their heritage.

What We Do

You can pick up applications for housing assistance at the Native Village of Barrow main office, located at 6090 Boxer St. Alternatively, you can download the application forms online. Once completed, you can drop off the forms at our office, email them , or fax them. If you have any questions about the application process, please don’t hesitate to contact our office at (907) 852-4411.

Child Protection Services
We protect children from abuse and neglect by investigating reports and assessing family safety. We create case plans to connect families with services and work with the tribal court when removals or protective actions are needed. We ensure children are safe and well-cared for.
Foster Care Services
We assist tribal members interested in fostering children, helping them stay connected to their culture and community. Our support includes the licensing process and guidance through the application and placement steps.
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Tribal Goals for Child Welfare
Our goals are to ensure child safety, maintain family connections, and promote cultural preservation. We align our efforts with tribal laws and collaborate with state agencies and other tribes for the best outcomes.
Grants and Victim Support Services
We support crime victims through a Victim Advocate and specialized services. With $1.2 million in funding (2019-2020), we assess community needs and provide direct assistance to help victims heal and recover.
Child Protection Services
We protect children from abuse and neglect by investigating reports and assessing family safety. We create case plans to connect families with services and work with the tribal court when removals or protective actions are needed. Before closing cases, we ensure children are safe and well-cared for.
Tribal Goals for Child Welfare
Our goals are to ensure child safety, maintain family connections, and promote cultural preservation. We align our efforts with tribal laws and collaborate with state agencies and other tribes for the best outcomes.
Foster Care Services
We assist tribal members interested in fostering children, helping them stay connected to their culture and community. Our support includes the licensing process and guidance through the application and placement steps.
VIEW MORE INFO BELOW
Grants and Victim Support Services
We support crime victims through a Victim Advocate and specialized services. With $1.2 million in funding (2019-2020), we assess community needs and provide direct assistance to help victims heal and recover.

Foster Care Services

We support tribal members interested in providing foster care for children in need. Caring for foster children is a rewarding experience, and foster families play a key role in helping children stay connected to their culture and community. If you’re interested in becoming a Tribally Licensed Foster Care Parent, begin by completing the foster care application. NVB supports families throughout the process to ensure it is a rewarding experience.

Who We Serve

Our department serves all Native Village of Barrow tribal members by providing services to protect children, strengthen families, and support victims of crime. We work closely with families, community partners, and other agencies to ensure that children are raised in safe, loving environments while preserving their cultural identity.