Tag: Childwelfaresystem

Participate in Park Street Education’s Youth Advisory Group

Park Street Education is putting together a Youth Advisory Group (YAG) to help shape a new program for youth in care, and they’re looking for your perspective and experience.

This is a paid, fully virtual, low-pressure role. You won’t be asked to share anything you’re not comfortable in sharing – the goal is to gather honest ideas about what makes learning feel safe, supportive, and meaningful from your perspective. All the details are attached.

Interested? Complete this form:  Youth Advisory Group – Expression of Interest – Fill out form by January 30th, 2026.Questions? Contact Karen at Park Street Education, here, karen.stern@parkstreetedu.com.

Invitation to take part in research study for youth with lived experiences in child welfare in Ontario

Purpose of the Study

The study aims to explore intergenerational relationships, lived experiences of former children and youth who aged out of the Ontario child welfare system, and child welfare policy and practices. This study is part of the current research of the International and Canadian Child Rights Partnership (ICCRP).

Research Question

“How Do Intergenerational Relationships among People with Lived Experiences in
the Ontario Child Welfare System Influence Child Welfare Policies and Practices?”

Criteria to Participate

Dr. Tara Collins (Principal Investigator) and Jessie-Lynn Cross, Research Assistance at Toronto Metropolitan University are seeking 50 participants for this study. To participate, you need to be:

  • a resident of Canada;
  • are 18+ years old at the time of study participation; and
  • have lived experience in the Ontario child protection system for any length of time and currently living with or without financial support from child protection agencies.

Details of the Study

If you agree to volunteer in this study, you will be sent an email with brief information about the research topic, goal, and consent forms. You will have time to ask questions about the study and if you agree to participate by signing and returning the consent form, you will be forwarded the interview questions along with a list of mental health and emotional resources.

If you meet the requirements and wish to participate, you will be invited to a semi-structured virtual interview that will be no more than 60 minutes long. Your participation will involve:

  • communicating with Jessie-Lynn Cross and other research assistants via email about your availability for an interview;
  • disclosing personal information to demonstrate your eligibility (e.g. your age, if you are a resident of Canada or not, lived experience in the Child Welfare system of Ontario); and
  • attend a one-hour virtual (audio)/phone interview and answer the study questions.

Your participation is completely voluntary. No financial compensation will be provided, but you will be provided an opportunity to engage in other ICCRP activities if you consent to future contact. Please know that there is no requirement to participate in this study. You may know our lead co-investigator or other research team members due to their extensive experiences in the child welfare system in Ontario.

If you choose not to participate, it will not impact your relationship with either of the primary investigators, Jane Kovarikova or Tara Collins; Jessie-Lyn Cross or other research assistants, your relationship with the Child Welfare Political Action Committee, or Toronto Metropolitan University. This means that your participation would have no impact on the decisions or services provided by these organizations/networks in Ontario. If you participate, your identity will not be shared with others outside of the research team. You have the right to withdraw voluntarily from participation or parts of participation at any time without providing any reasons.

The research is funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Council of Canada (SSHRC) and has been reviewed and approved by the Toronto Metropolitan University Research Ethics Board Reference ID 2023-057.

If you are interested in more information about the study or would like to volunteer, please contact Jessie-Lynn Cross by email at: Jessielynncross@torontomu.ca or you can choose to contact Tara Collins by email at: tara.collins@torontomu.ca or call 416-979-5000, ext. 554563.

GTSWCA Scholarships – Now Accepting Applications

The Greater Toronto Sewer and Watermain Contractors’ Association (GTSWCA) 2025 scholarship program is now accepting applications.

The goal of this program is to help students meet the demand of rising education costs. In 2025, the GTSWCA will provide up to 20 scholarships in the amount of $2,500.

Eligibility: applicants must be enrolled in a university, college, trade school, or training program in September 2025

Deadline: fill out the application form and submit all the required materials by no later than Friday, September 5, 2025 at 11:59 pm

If you have any questions, please contact the GTSWCA (905-629-7766 or info@gtswca.org).

Click Here for Scholarship Application

Resources and Strategies for Indigenous Youth

by Sebastian Hable

Indigenous youth in foster care face unique challenges but also have incredible opportunities to build skills and connections that empower them to thrive. Whether you’re focusing on education, life skills, or mental health, there are resources and strategies to help you navigate this journey.

1. Education: Your Path, Your Future

Education can open doors to a brighter future. If you’re in foster care, you might be eligible for bursaries or grants designed for Indigenous youth. Look into programs like the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) program or scholarships specific to Indigenous students. Remember, it’s okay to take your time to figure out what you want to pursue—there’s no one “right” path.

2. Building Life Skills

From managing your money to preparing for independent living, life skills are essential. Start small by learning how to budget your expenses or cook simple meals. Many community organizations offer workshops tailored for youth in care, where you can practice these skills in a supportive environment.

3. Mental Health: Prioritize Yourself

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, but you don’t have to face it alone. There are culturally relevant mental health supports available, such as counseling services rooted in Indigenous traditions. Talking to a trusted Elder or support worker can also help you find balance and connection to your identity.

4. Peer Connections: You’re Not Alone

Finding others who understand your experience can be empowering. Consider joining a youth group or online community for Indigenous foster youth. These spaces offer a chance to share your story, learn from others, and build lasting friendships.

5. Your Resilience is Your Strength

As an Indigenous youth, you carry a legacy of resilience. Despite the systemic barriers you may face, there are resources, people, and organizations ready to support you. Lean into your strengths, ask for help when you need it, and remember—you have the power to shape your future. You’re not on this journey alone. Whether you’re looking to continue your education, find housing, or build stronger connections, there are people and programs out there to guide you every step of the way.

Vote for Ontario Elections on February 27th!

Vote for the provincial elections in Ontario on election day on February 27 or at any advance voting location on February 21 or 22. Your vote matters and you can influence policies at the provincial level because the provincial government is responsible for the following:

  • Education
  • Colleges and universities
  • Drivers’ licensing and highways
  • Hospitals and healthcare delivery
  • Municipalities
  • Natural resources
  • Property and civil rights
  • Provincial law and courts
  • Provincial taxes
  • Social services

Find your riding: You can find your provincial electoral district by entering your postal code on the search tool on the following page, Electoral Districts.

ID Requirements: ID is required to vote in a provincial election. Photo ID is not required when you go to vote. If you choose to provide photo ID, your appearance does not need to match the photo. You do not need to provide any information about your sex or gender expression when you go to vote.

ID can be shown on a mobile device. International ID or permanent resident cards are not accepted.

If you are on the Register, you will receive a voter information cardOpens in popup modal glossary definition (VIC) in the mail about when and where to vote. Bring your VIC and one piece of ID showing your name to receive a ballotOpens in popup modal glossary definition when you go to vote.

You can still vote if you do not receive a VIC, but your name may not be on the Register. You must bring one piece of ID showing both your name and home address to register and receive a ballot.

Only eligible voters can vote in provincial elections. To be eligible to vote, you must be:

  • 18 years of age or older;
  • a Canadian citizen; and
  • a resident of Ontario.

Use Voter RegistrationOpens in a new tab to confirm, update, add or remove your voter information. Alternatively, you can complete paper application formsOpens in a new tab.

ID includes most documents issued by the Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario or a municipality in Ontario. Find examples of accepted ID below.

If you have a voter information card, bring one piece of ID with your name on it.

Government-issued

  • Birth certificate
  • Marriage certificate
  • Ontario health card
  • Canadian Armed Forces ID card (NDI 20)
  • Canadian passport
  • Certificate of Canadian Citizenship
  • Certificate of Indian Status (Status card)
  • Certificate of Naturalization (issued before January 1, 1947)
  • Citizenship card
  • Firearms licence
  • Nexus/FAST (Free and Secure Trade) card
  • Old Age Security identification card
  • Social Insurance Number confirmation letter
  • Registration of birth abroad (issued between January 1, 1947 and February 14, 1977)
  • Veteran Affairs Canada Health Care Identification card
  • Veteran’s Service Card (NDI 75)
  • Birth Certificate from a Canadian province or territory

Other

  • Blood donor card
  • Credit/debit card
  • Diplomatic or special passport
  • Employee card
  • Hospital records (including hospital bracelets)
  • Union card or professional licence
  • Student card
  • A document from a Band Council in Ontario established under the Indian Act (Canada) showing a person’s name
  • Any document showing your name issued by:
    • the Government of Canada
    • the Government of Ontario
    • a municipality
    • a government agency

If you don’t have a voter information card, bring one piece of ID with both your name and home address. These include the following:

Government-issued

  • Ontario driver’s licence
  • Ontario motor vehicle permit (plate or vehicle portion)
  • Ontario photo card
  • Property assessment notice from Municipal Property Assessment Corporation
  • Child tax benefit statement
  • Income tax notice of assessment
  • Social Insurance Number confirmation letter
  • Statement of Employment Insurance Benefits Paid T4E
  • Statement of Old Age Security T4A (OAS)
  • Any document showing both your name and home address issued by the Government of Canada/Ontario

Educational or financial

  • School admission letter
  • School transcript or report card
  • Tuition/fees statement
  • Bank account or credit card statement
  • Cancelled personalized cheque
  • Cheque stub, pay receipt or T4 issued by a person’s employer
  • Insurance statement
  • Residential mortgage, lease, or rental statement
  • Signed loan or financial agreement with a financial institution
  • Document showing campus residence issued by the office or officials responsible for student residence at a post-secondary institution 

Other

  • CNIB card or card from another registered charitable organization that provides services to persons with disabilities
  • Hospital records showing a person’s name and home address
  • Letter of Confirmation of Residence
  • Utility bill (hydro, water, gas, telephone, cable TV, public utilities commission)
  • Property tax assessment or bill from a municipality in Ontario
  • Any other document showing both your name and home address issued by:
    • a municipality
    • a government agency
    • or certified by a court in Ontario
    • a Band Council in Ontario established under the Indian Act (Canada)

You can find voting locations by entering your postal code on the search tool on the following webpage, Search – Elections Ontario.

Find out more information in relation to voting by checking the FAQ’s and other resources on the Elections Ontario website here, Frequently asked questions.

Make a Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada 2025-26 Scholarship Application Today!

Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada post-secondary scholarships award young people $5,000 for each academic year until they finish their program (to a maximum of 7 years from their program start) through a once yearly competitive application for 300 awards. The deadline to apply is Monday, February 3rd, 2025.

If you are starting or continuing in full time studies in the 2025-26 academic year, and aren’t already receiving a CAFC Scholarship ($5,000 a year)*, apply here for the Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada Scholarship today!

Visit our website for the link to the online application form, full eligibility information and answers to the most asked questions, or contact the Foundation’s PSE team at grants@cafdn.org.

Scholarship applications are open to youth with both financial need and the potential to succeed in their program of study. To be eligible, a student must be:

  • Be attending a post-secondary institution full-time or on a reduced schedule due to an academic accommodation, for a full school year starting in September 2025 or January 2026
  • Have been or will be in the temporary or permanent care of the Ministry or Department responsible for child protection services up until your age of majority birthday or had been in permanent care of the Ministry or Department responsible for child protection services for at least 12 months
  • Are under the age of 30 if you have or are currently receiving Foundation supports, or,
  • Are over the age of 30 and currently receiving a Foundation bursary ($2000) or have not received a CAFC Scholarship or Bursary before
  • Not currently receiving a CAFC Scholarship*

*Current 2024-25 CAFC Scholarship recipients do not need to make a new scholarship application.

If you aren’t sure if you are currently receiving a CAFC Scholarship or bursary or have any questions about the application form, process, or eligibility, we can help!

Email grants@cafdn.org with your questions and visit our website for more information and the application link.

Current and Former Youth in Extended Care Eligible for Annual Bursaries at Trent University

Students who have been or are in extended society care and demonstrate financial need are eligible to receive $3,000 in bursary funding during each academic year ($1,500 in each of the fall and winter terms).

How to Apply 

Eligible students are required to complete the UG Bursary Application at the beginning of each term. The application will be available on the Finances page of the myTrent Student Portal. 

To be eligible, students must be: 

  • In receipt of Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) funding, Government Student aid from another Canadian province, Post-Secondary Student Support Program (PSSSP), or First Nations Band Funding  
  • Canadian citizens, permanent residents or protected persons as defined by Citizenship and Immigration Canada   
  • Enrolled in an undergraduate program at Trent University and enrolled in at least 60% of a full course load (or 40% for students with permanent disability status)  
  • A current or former youth in extended society care

Willsy’s Extended Society Care Fund  

The Willsy’s Extended Society Care Fund, created through the generosity of Elizabeth Wills-Edwards ’08, provides an annual bursary of up to $4,000 for students who lived under Extended Society Care.

Preference will be given, but not limited to, mature students who are at least 24 years of age and there is no restriction on the students’ academic year or field of study.

An application will be available on the Finances page of the myTrent Student Portal beginning in June each year. The annual deadline to apply is July 31.

Learn more about Willsy’s Extended Society Care Fund.

Support for Students who have been or are in extended society care

Transitioning to University can be made easier with the right support. We have resources that are specifically designed to help you reach your full potential, while providing you with the foundation, guidance and support you need.

Learn more about Support for Students who have been or are in extended society care.

Apply for a free 2-day Trades training!

Are you 18+ with lived experience in the child welfare system? Discover your passion for Ontario’s skilled trades!

The Trades Ready Youth 2-Day Workshop entails:

  • Construction Industry Certifications
  • Hands-on training for entry-level Electrical apprentice skills (Wiring, VR, etc.)
  • Mentorship sessions
  • Networking opportunities

Coffee, light snacks and lunch will be provided. Hard hat and work boots included.

Date and Time: Feb. 4 and 5, 2025, 8 am – 4 pm

Address: IBEW Local 804 5158 Fountain St N, Breslau, ON

Register now at: Give the Trades a TRY! | Child Welfare PAC.

Consultation opportunity for Indigenous youth from Care!

The Indigenous Youth Advisory Council at ANCFSAO has a new series called the “Youth Led, Youth Friendly Document Series”. This Series aims to broaden the network and understanding for children and youth in care and how they engage with the system.

As part of the series, they want to engage with youth across the province for the following dates (all meetings will be 4:30-6:30 PM to accommodate school/work schedules): 

  • December 18th, 2024
  • January 8th, 2025
  • January 15th, 2025
  • January 16th, 2025.

These engagements will include fun ice breakers along with interactive activities and questions to get a sense of what the youth wish was more youth friendly about the system, their learning styles. Each youth who engages will be provided with honorarium for attending and engaging.

ANCFSAO aims to create deliverables based on this consultation phase (podcasts, infographics, short animated videos, pictures, etc.) to help youth find additional routes to understanding the navigation of their journey in child welfare. 

After this they will be re-engaging with the youth groups so they can provide feedback on the deliverables and if they think these truly are youth led and youth friendly. Once they have amended from the feedback they will begin rolling this out online and through their networks by holding sessions to introduce and teach their new sets of tools to Child Wellbeing and CAS agencies across Ontario.

Eligibility

Indigenous youth between the ages of 14-24 across Ontario who have been involved with a CAS or Child Well being agency and want to share their stories and provide feedback to help the next 7 generations. 

They are accepting up to 18 youth per engagement, once you have received the invitation to the meeting it means your registration has been accepted. If they have reached the limit they will reach out to inform you or reschedule you for another date. 

Sign up

Please follow the link Here to sign up! Please forward to any youth you think would be interested.

Nia:wen and we really look forward to seeing you there!

If you have any questions reach out to prevention@ancfsao.ca