While “family” may take many forms, it is the permanent connection to those who are important to us that is its underlying strength.
This year in Ontario Family Day takes place on February 20th. It is a time to celebrate “family” in all of its variations and be reminded once again of the special gift the bonds of family can provide.
Children’s Aid Societies across the province recognize the importance of maintaining family connections and in fact Ontario’s leading research study on child abuse and neglect shows that children remained with their families in 97% of CAS investigations.*
Provincially, there are approximately 10% fewer children coming into care than there were five years ago. Our goal is to provide the kinds of supports and services that are most helpful in keeping families together, while ensuring that children and youth are kept safe.
When it is necessary for a child or youth to come into the care of a CAS, because their safety or well-being is at risk, we strive to provide them with family- based care either through a foster or kin family, via community connections or through adoption.
We hope that you enjoy spending time on February 20th with those who are most important to you and remember how essential having a sense of family is to us all.
