The Children’s Aid Society of London and Middlesex has a Youth Response Unit to strengthen protective services to youth, preserve their family systems and provide family based supports. We have an ongoing commitment to preparing youth for life, ensuring they have permanent relationships and engaging them in every step of the process through a culturally inclusive and anti-oppressive framework. Youth Response Unit Strategic Map.
For more information on how we work with youth, call 519-455-9000 ext 2762 or email our Youth Engagement Worker [email protected].
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BURSARY PROGRAMS
Youth who are in care can contact their CAS worker for information on criteria for our internal Bursary Program. Eligibility extends to those who aged out while in care (not adopted). This program has been made possible thanks to the generosity of several donors.
Youth in a variety of circumstances may also want to look into the following, external to our agency, for requirements and deadlines.
https://www.storwell.com/bursary-application (Applicant must be 24 years of age or less at the time of application.)
Clark Bursary Program – Take5 (closed for 2022)
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OTHER SUPPORT PROGRAMS
The Ontario government is extending the moratorium on youth aging out of care to maintain supports and services for youth whose care arrangements are scheduled to expire during the COVID-19 pandemic. This moratorium on youth aging out is now extended until September 30, 2022. This extension ensures youth in care have a longer period of security with consistent support and services during the ongoing pandemic.
There are many support programs for young people who have been in the care of a children's aid society. Youth who have been in the care of a society, or who are leaving care, can contact their society for more information about the programs available. Visit the Ministry's webpage on Youth Leaving Care for more information.
Special Funds: CA Foundation COVID-19 Response Program. Apply through:
Youth Opportunities Unlimited
Contact: Lynne Whitelaw, Intake Coordinator
[email protected]
O: (519) 432-1112 ext. 103 or C: (519) 852-7719
www.you.ca
Check out Take5 for Mental Health: This is an online space for children and youth in foster care, in group homes, or living away from their parents in Ontario. It was made with young people who have been in care. On Take5 you can find information for your age on things like: coping with stress, stuff about your identity and culture, relationships, and who to ask for help. You can also find activities, podcasts, videos and online events. Take5 is for children 6 to 12 and youth 13 and above.Visit www.take-5.org