OACAS is deeply concerned about the recent media coverage regarding children and youth that have come in contact with Ontario’s child welfare system. The death of any child is tragic. We respectfully acknowledge the impact these deaths have had on their loved ones and communities, and our thoughts are with them. We remain committed to working with the Ontario government, provincial partners, as well as community-based organizations and service providers to identify and address root causes and improve systems supporting children, youth, and families to prevent future tragedies.
Global News recently obtained data using freedom of information laws. Regarding the Global News coverage, OACAS and our members recognize that it is critical to learn more about the data to gain a better understanding of the circumstances. We would welcome the opportunity to work in partnership with the Ontario government to analyze the data and identify solutions.
Children’s aid societies and Indigenous Child and Family Well-Being Agencies (child welfare agencies) are part of the network of care dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of children, youth, and families across the province. They work tirelessly in partnership with local organizations and service providers to ensure children get the right support, at the right time, close to home.
Community-based organizations and service providers delivering critical supports and programming that are inclusive and identity-affirming and centre the social determinants of health have become increasingly scant, siloed, and splintered across the province. Too many children, youth, and families are left without supports and services vital to their health and well-being. In some communities, there are no community-based organizations or service providers delivering the care that is needed. In others, there are long wait lists or exclusionary eligibility criteria that make timely access to supports and services impossible.
Systemic gaps and barriers to high-quality, trauma-informed, culturally relevant and responsive care in communities across Ontario are acutely felt by Indigenous, Black, and 2SLGBTQ+ children, youth, and families, including those presenting with complex needs (i.e., social, emotional, developmental, mental health and addictions, etc.) Systemic gaps and barriers to care are only exacerbated by location. Those living in Northern, rural and remote parts of the province face unique challenges in receiving care integral to their health and well-being.
Working towards integrated systems of care that truly wrap around children, youth, and families that promote their health and well-being when they need it most is a responsibility that cuts across all levels of government, ministries, and provincial partners, as well as community-based organizations and service providers. Together, we can transform our systems of care. Children, youth, and families cannot wait.
