Amidst a steady decline in foster care placement availability, the Ontario Association of Children's Aid Societies (OACAS) have released the provincial 'There to Care' campaign. With the need for foster caregivers now greater than ever, including in Halton Region, this initiative aims to underscore the vital role of foster caregivers, emphasizing their profound impact on children, youth, families and communities. By dispelling misconceptions and rallying community support, the campaign seeks to address the critical shortage of foster homes across Ontario.
Child welfare agencies, who are responsible for finding temporary homes for children and youth when they cannot stay with their primary caregivers or with kin, are facing a crisis. With a staggering 33.6% decrease in available foster homes since 2020, the safety and well-being of children, youth and families is at risk. The demand for these compassionate individuals and families has never been higher.
Foster caregivers go beyond providing temporary homes. They also provide essential support in maintaining connections with extended family and community members for children and youth while they are in care. In Ontario, finding suitable placements that match the unique identities and needs of children and youth is paramount. Child welfare agencies strive to match foster caregivers based on their experience and the needs and identities including the cultural background of the children and youth. There is an urgent need for placements supporting sibling groups, older children and youth, infants and those with complex needs.
Join us in this critical effort to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for vulnerable children and youth. Your community needs you now more than ever. To learn more about how you can be There to Care, please visit There to Care – Ontario Association of Children's Aid Societies (oacas.org)