Letter to the Editor

Jeanette Lewis, Executive Director, responds to Kevin Libin's column published on June 13 in the National Post re: State as mother; Critics say it's time to rein in child-welfare agencies.
Excerpt: Mr. Libin made a number of salacious comments in his article that are neither accurate nor balanced. It is necessary, for the greater public good and in the best interests of children, to clarify with respect to misinformation, confidentiality and accountability. OACAS and its member agencies continually and actively strive to improve the system of care and protection for Ontario’s most vulnerable children and youth; however, Mr. Libin’s article creates suspicion and fear of the only legislated, mandated means to protect children and youth in Ontario.

Click here to read the letter to the editor...


Paediatric Death Review Committee & Death Under 5 Committee 2009

Paediatric Death Review Committee presentation on June 1st by Dr. Bert Lauwers Associate Deputy Chief Coroner. The 2009 report contains data from deaths reviewed in 2008 when the Paediatric Death Review Committee examined the circumstances surrounding the deaths of 138 children between the ages of 0 and 19 years. The Deaths Under Five Committee reviewed 96 deaths. The purpose of the reviews is to objectively analyze the circumstances leading up to, and surrounding the deaths and to develop recommendations aimed at preventing deaths in similar circumstances. Click here to view the report.


How you can help

Volunteer: Ontario’s Children’s Aid Society volunteers come from all walks of life and are special people who contribute their time, energy and special skills to children and families involved with and supported by their local Children’s Aid Society. If you are interested in adopting, fostering or volunteering, please contact your local Children’s Aid Society. Read more about how to become a volunteer.


Funding for social services crucial to support families

    OACAS recognizes the magnitude of the global economic crisis and the impact it is already beginning to have on Ontario’s families and children. As front-line service providers whose mandate is to protect children from abuse and neglect, 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. Sustained funding for social services is necessary to ensure children and families are not further disadvantaged in the current economic climate. In the Pre-Budget Consultation: Submission to the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs,  OACAS made recommendations to change the funding model in six key areas:

    • Ensuring capacity to meet legislative requirements;
    • Re-committing to the Transformation Agenda;
    • Strengthening Foster and Family-Based Care;
    • Appropriately serving children, youth and adults awaiting placements in other sectors;
    • Reducing costly administrative requirements which do not contribute to protecting children; and
    • Investing in System-wide infrastructure to enable effective management of child welfare services.

    Read the position paper...