NCJ Number
114236
Journal
Child Welfare Volume: 67 Issue: 6 Dated: (November-December) Pages: 625-644
Date Published
1988
Length
20 pages
Annotation
Canada's programs for preparing young people for independent living after foster care are described, as are the basic structure of child welfare in Canada and the efforts to develop these programs.
Abstract
Child welfare services in Canada are the responsibility of each province and territory, but funding is divided between the provincial and Federal levels. Some provinces have governmental agencies that deliver services, which others operate through semiprivate agencies and contracted services. The age for termination of care varies from 16 to 19 in different jurisdictions. Awareness of the need for independent-living programs has been growing over the last several years. Three program models currently operate in Canada: nonresidential support programs, apartment and shared living programs, and supported room-and-board situations. Some nonresidential programs use multiservice resource centers, while others emphasize training courses. Another form of independence training consists of weekend camps organized by a committee of youths with input from supportive social workers. Some programs use a phased approach that gradually reduce the supportive guidance that young people receive. Although Canada has a range of programs, the resources do not yet meet all the needs. 9 references. (Author abstract modified)