Seeking to establish collaborative working relationships with the state while firmly asserting sovereignty over Maliseet children, a Child Welfare Department was formed by the Houlton Band. The department created a Child Protective Team made up of professionals and volunteers to review and seek options for children needing services. Drastically reducing the number of children in out-of-home-care situations through culturally and family appropriate solutions, the Houlton Band is preventing child removals, supporting families, and fostering government-to-government relations. Most importantly, the Band is reclaiming its future, by caring for Maliseet children.