Penasi Group Homes is a privately owned group home which opened in December 2012. It is owned and operated by Charles Fox and Meladina Hardy-Fox. The 8 bed residence provides clinical treatment and land based experiences for boys ages 8 to 12 years.
Penasi Group Home was developed in memory of Charles’ son, Darryl “Penasi” Fox who passed away from cancer in 2002. Penasi meaning “Thunderbird” was Darryl’s spirit name.
The owners of the program are Charles Fox who is Oji-Cree and a member of the Bearskin Lake First Nation. Charles is the former Grand Chief of NAN and former Regional Chief of Ontario. Co-owner is Meladina Hardy-Fox who is Ojibway and a member of the Biinjitawaabik Saagiing Anishinaabek First Nation. Meladina’s education includes a Masters of International Management, Finance Speciality, Bachelor of Arts, Psychology and Honours Bachelor of Education, Primary/Junior.
Referrals to the program are primarily from Tikinagan Child and Family Services and Dilico Anishanabek Family Care although other child welfare agencies may also access the program.