Message from the Executive Director
By Jeanette Lewis

Almost every article in newspapers today bemoans the current economic state in Ontario, Canada and the world. Against this backdrop of bad news, child welfare workers have an important role in helping children and families cope with the effects of a sluggish economy. Child welfare work becomes more necessary as the strains and stresses of job losses, financial insecurity, homelessness and hunger threaten to bend and then break vulnerable families challenged by worsening economic conditions.

Yet, amongst the economic uncertainly, plant closings and layoffs, Ontarians continue their daily activities, our children and youth still attend school and for many, life goes on. Child protection workers continue to use their clinical skills and expertise to support families and help children in these challenging times. They protect children and support families by providing the supports children and youth need to become thriving adults and the services parents need to become better caregivers.

While we might despair when considering the current economic situation, while we are frustrated with the difficulty in obtaining enough resources for the work of member agencies, and while we brace for the impact of these financial stresses on children and families, it is important to balance this frustration with opportunities and successes.

The Ontario Government announced three new Education Championship Teams in addition to the four teams already in place to help Crown wards succeed at college or university. As part of the Poverty Reduction Strategy, the government also announced an annual investment of $19 million to support Crown wards in making the transition to independence. Social workers were recognized for their tireless efforts on behalf of children and families during Social Work Week. Agencies that provide services to Franco-Ontarians in the language of their choice were acknowledged during Francophonie Week. On Family Day, Ontarians recognized the needs of children, especially Crown wards, to have families and the needs of families, especially those vulnerable families most affected by the economy, to have access to community services and supports.

As front-line service providers whose mandate is to protect children from abuse and neglect, Ontario’s Children’s Aid Societies know first-hand the impact of economic uncertainly, plant closures, job loss and family stress on the well-being of children and youth. OACAS made recommendations to government in the Pre-Budget Consultation: Submission to the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs to ensure children and families are not further disadvantaged in the current economic climate.

This edition of the Journal presents articles on research, programs and services for youth and children in care such as: an analysis of the system of care for youth in Ontario; a study on young adults in care in the Midwestern United States; parents creating change in child protection in Ontario; on-line learning and anti-oppression in child welfare.

Jeanette Lewis
Executive Director