Kinship and Alternate Care Awareness Week
“In our experience we have always been involved in our grandson's life and would have been devastated if he was placed in foster home instead of our home two years ago. He has his own bedroom and has settled in well with as he always saw our home as his own. We feel that the benefits of children being placed with their families allow for healthier growth and overall well-being. They grow up with a feeling of belonging and being connected to an extended family.” ~ Grandparents caring for their seven-year-old grandson
Kinship and Alternate Care Awareness Week takes place September 18-22, 2023. It is a time when the Catholic Children’s Aid Society of Toronto (CCAS) formally recognizes the hard work and dedication of our Kinship and Alternate Caregivers who care for vulnerable children and youth. This year’s theme focuses on the various layers—identity, relationships, organizations, community collaborations, and government—that influence the well-being of children and youth, and the family and community members who support and care for them.
Research shows that children and youth benefit from being placed with their Kinship and Alternate Care families. They maintain vital connections with their family, culture, community, and religion. They have a greater sense of belonging and experience reduced separation trauma. Whether these arrangements are short-term or long-term, they have a life-long impact on children’s and youths’ lives and contribute positively to their safety and emotional well-being.
CCAS recognizes and celebrates the unwavering commitment, dedication, love, time, and energy Kinship and Alternate Caregivers provide to children and youth, ensuring they have a safe home and stay connected to their families and their communities.
On behalf of everyone at CCAS, we want to thank all our Kinship and Alternate Caregivers and their families for keeping children and youth safe and connected.
