Tlingit & Haida has achieved a signed Title IV-E plan authorizing the ability to directly administer and receive federal reimbursement for specific child welfare services for eligible children. The direct funding is a significant step toward enhancing and expanding child welfare services for tribal children and families.
A direct IV-E agreement recognizes and respects the Tribe’s inherent sovereignty, allowing tribes to exercise self-determination in child welfare. Tlingit & Haida can now design, operate, and evaluate its child welfare system, with the ability to deliver services that are culturally relevant, community-based, and reflect tribal values and traditions.
“In 2024, Tlingit & Haida’s Child Welfare program served 233 tribal children across 15 states—an incredible testament to the reach and importance of our work,” said President Chaylee Éesh Richard Peterson. “Of the Indian Child Welfare Act cases, 48.5% were in Alaska and 30.47% were in Washington. These numbers show us where the Tribe’s responsibility lies. Tlingit & Haida remains committed to protecting children, no matter where they live, and ensuring they stay connected to their heritage, their community, and their identity.”
As of 2025, 69% of children in Alaska state custody were Alaska Native or American Indian and 68% of children in Washington state custody were Alaska Native or American Indian.
“We can now focus on further strengthening our early intervention and prevention services to reduce the need for children to be placed in foster care; ideally we would like to serve all families prior to need for out of home intervention,” said Family Services Director Mary Johnson. “Tlingit & Haida will have greater efficiency in supporting children, parents and caregivers.”
Tlingit & Haida will begin an implementation phase, focusing on continued development of child welfare services, improved monitoring systems, and enhanced capacity-building efforts. The approval lays the groundwork for stronger and more responsive child welfare program, led by the Tribe.
Tlingit & Haida looks forward to strengthening partnerships with local agencies and community organizations, creating a more integrated support network.
What is Title IV-E?
Title IV-E is a section of the federal Social Security Act that provides funding to support child welfare services, especially for children who are in—or at risk of entering—foster care. It’s the largest source of federal funding for child welfare programs in the U.S.