
What we do
Our Native Family Services team works to equip families of all kinds to meet the individual, cultural and spiritual needs of Native American children in foster care. Whether it looks like providing cultural connection opportunities or offering trauma-informed training and resources, we’re here to walk alongside you and ensure you have all you need to love these kids well.
Who We Serve
Children from Native communities carry rich cultural identities and deep community ties. The families who care for them deserve support that honors both.
Child welfare for Native communities doesn’t always fall into a single, well-defined category. That’s why Child Bridge is here to support ALL types of families who care for these precious kids.
About Native Family Services
CHECK OUT our resource library
Whether you’re navigating complex family dynamics, strengthening your child’s tribal connections, or exploring how to care for Native children in your community, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Explore Native-specific tools and guidance created with families like yours in mind in our Resource Library.

Common Questions
What is Native Family Services?
Native Family Services (NFS) exists because Native children deserve to remain connected to their identity, tribe and community. As a program of Child Bridge, we recruit Native foster families and walk alongside all families caring for Native children who have experienced foster care in Montana. Through culturally grounded, trauma-informed support, we help caregivers protect identity, strengthen belonging and honor the relationships that shape a child’s life.
Do you license foster parents?
No. Native Family Services does not license families. We provide information, support and connection. We also refer families to the appropriate licensing agency. We walk alongside you before, during and after the process.
Do I have to be Native to foster Native children?
No. While we actively recruit Native families to serve Native children, we also support non-Native families who are caring for Native children and want to do so in a culturally respectful way. Our goal is always to strengthen identity, belonging, and connection.
Do you work with kinship caregivers (grandparents, aunts, relatives)?
Yes. Kinship care is a vital part of Native communities. We offer encouragement, connection and equipping resources to relatives who are caring for children—whether they’re formally licensed or not.
What kind of support do you offer?
Native Family Services provides relational, culturally grounded support for families caring for Native children. Our services includes:
- Trauma-informed care training
- Education around ICWA and cultural humility
- Practical caregiving tools that can be used in everyday life
- Gatherings that create space for encouragement, learning and community
- One-on-one parent coaching to help families navigate individual challenges
How does Native Family Services honor culture?
We encourage families to:
- Build relationships within the child’s tribal community or urban Native communities
- Support participation in cultural events and activities
- Learn about the history and traditions of Native communities
- Approach caregiving with humility, respect and partnership
Is this a faith-based program?
Yes. Child Bridge is a Christ-centered nonprofit. We support families from all backgrounds in honoring both faith and culture in meaningful, everyday ways.
What is ICWA, and why does it matter?
The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) is a federal law that prioritizes placing Native children with relatives, tribal members or other Native families to preserve cultural and tribal connections. Native Family Services supports families in understanding and honoring ICWA.
What if I’m just exploring and not ready to commit?
That’s great! Child Bridge hosts monthly, virtual Info Meetings that are pressure-free. You can come, ask questions and simply learn more about the need and the process. Sign up to attend an Info Meeting or fill out the contact form on this page to have an advocate reach out to you directly.
How can I get involved?
You can:
- Attend an info meeting
- Get connected with Foster Connects and Journey Groups
- Partner with us as a church or community organization
- Share information with families who may feel called
Every step matters.




