OACAS has received notice that the Ministry has taken steps to ensure youth over the age of 18 continue to be supported through the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, and to promote consistency of care and continuity of service during the public health crisis.

The Ministry issued a new policy directive, Supporting Consistency of Care during COVID-19, and made regulatory amendments that will ensure youth in and leaving the care of Children’s Aid Societies are supported during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The policy and regulatory amendment enable Children’s Aid Societies to continue providing services to youth in and from care, whose care arrangements are scheduled to expire during the COVID-19 pandemic period, including:

  • Youth in extended society care, interim care or customary care whose in-care status will expire on their 18th birthday
  • Youth who have entered into a Voluntary Youth Services Agreement (VYSA), whose agreement will expire on their 18th birthday

The policy directive further requires CASs to continue supports to youth who have entered into Continued Care and Supports for Youth agreements (CCSY), even those turning 21.

The regulatory amendment and policy directive are both effective March 26, 2020.

OACAS and member agencies have advocated for changes to prevent youth from losing supports during the pandemic period. Please join me in thanking our ministry colleagues for their diligence in bringing about these needed changes so quickly.

 

We’re OPEN!

We are open and available to provide service to our community. The Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society is committed to the health and wellbeing of its staff, partners, children, youth and families that we serve. Currently, there is no requirement to wear a mask within the WECAS buildings, however, all visitors will be screened for symptoms of illness prior to entry.

Interested in Volunteering?

Are you looking for a way to make an impact? Have rewarding experiences? Being appreciated for being yourself? Please email volunteer services — volunteering@wecas.on.ca to inquire into volunteer opportunities.

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