NIIGAANIIN
The Niigaaniin Program is an active social assistance program with an emphasis on providing support to First Nations communities and their citizens. The motto of the Niigaaniin Program is “No one left behind” and we try to adhere to that principle.
Niigaaniin implements the Ontario Works Welfare Assistance Program with culturally appropriate provisions. Rates, eligibility and program parameters are established by the Ontario Works legislation.
Our primary services include Financial Support, Employment Assistance and Addictions Services.
The Niigaaniin program is based on community specific needs, and programs are delivered through a client case management model within the seven North Shore First Nations plus Wanapitei First Nation.
HOW CAN NIIGAANIIN
HELP?
Financial Support
The Niigaaniin program provides Financial Support for the purpose of providing basic needs and shelter. Eligibility for assistance is based on the following:
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The number of members in your family.
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Your actual shelter costs.
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Your income, or the income of any dependent adults or co-applicants.
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Your assets such as properties (houses and land), RRSPs and so on.
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Your participation in approved Employment Assistance Activities. All persons accepted into the Niigaaniin program who are at least 18 years of age and employable are required to participate.
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Use the Transitional Support Fund to assist with relocation, hydro, gas and rental arrears.
Employment Assistance
The goal of Niigaaniin's Employment Assistance Program is to help you become job ready, find employment and stay employed. We administer the Mino Bimaadizidaa program which can assist with gaps in employment readiness.
The Niigaaniin staff will work with you to determine what your employment needs are, and then help you develop a plan based on your skills, experience and circumstances.
​Here are some examples of the services we provide to help you find a job:
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Workshops on job searching, writing a resume, and how to prepare for an interview.
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Referrals to job counseling or other training programs.
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Access to the Education Programs to obtain your grade 12 or GED.
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Use of computers, telephones and fax machines.
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Access to job boards and computers to do job searches.
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Assist with driver’s license issues
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Help with personal grooming for interviews
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Issue a Full Time Employment Benefit of up to $500 to clients who find full time work and up to $253 for part time work.
Roles and Responsibilities
Niigaaniin Director
The Niigaaniin Director oversees the Caseworker, Employment Counsellor and Niigaaniin Reception.
Employment Counsellor/ISETS
To provide counselling to Mississauga First Nation members in the areas of employment and training to assist them in their career goals. The position will also develop and facilitate workshops to provide information and to enhance skills of clients to improve their chances of success to reach their career goals.
Niigaaniin Caseworker
Under the direction of the Niigaaniin Director the Caseworker is responsible for intake and the delivery of financial assistance services and for participation in the development of program participant opportunities that are aimed at helping eligible members become self-supporting through employment or self-employment while ensuring that they can meet their basic/shelter needs and for assisting with the planning and evaluation of these services.
Niigaaniin Receptionist
The Niigaaniin Receptionist is responsible for welcoming and assisting visitors to the department both in person and over the telephone. The receptionist also provides clerical support and maintains the reception area.