Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada (CAFC) is our country’s leading charity dedicated to improving the lives of children, youth, and families involved in the child welfare system.

Child Welfare in Canada

Right now, around 60,000 young people in Canada are impacted by the child welfare system and living in out of home care, in foster homes, group homes or with extended family members. Thousands more are at risk of being removed from their family homes and brought into care.

Children come into care because they have experienced abuse, neglect or abandonment. Poverty, mental health, substance use, and family violence are among the most common reasons for investigations by child welfare agencies.

Moreover, historical injustices and systemic racism, has resulted in Black and Indigenous children, who make up 6 and 7 percent of the child and youth population in Canada respectively, being significantly overrepresented in the child welfare system

Why Support is Critical

We know that for children who become involved with the child welfare system, the odds are immediately stacked against them. Without the targeted and consistent supports they need, they are significantly less likely to graduate high school compared to their peers, are two to six times more likely to experience mental health concerns and are nearly 200 times more likely to experience homelessness.

Children and youth involved with the child welfare system face complex challenges that put their potential – and their lives – at risk.

Funds raised through Teddy Bear Adventure make a direct and lasting impact on the lives of children and youth

Through your support, Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada works alongside more than 100 child- and youth-serving organizations in communities across the country to drive meaningful change in four key areas: Education, Employment, Mental Health and Well-being, and Strong Families and Lifelong Connections. Together, we are advancing solutions and delivering high-impact programs that help children and youth involved in the child welfare system overcome barriers and reach their full potential.

As a result of your support:

Children and youth have a caring adult in their corner – a mentor, caregiver, or ally – providing the stability and encouragement they need to thrive.
Youth can access timely, appropriate mental health care and opportunities to build well-being.
Children and youth receive the supports they need – like tutoring, technology, and scholarships – to stay engaged in school and succeed.
Young people gain the life and job skills needed to pursue meaningful careers and brighter futures.