During Kinship & Alternate Care Awareness Week, we take time to recognize and celebrate the remarkable caregivers who open their hearts and homes to children and youth when they need support the most.
Kinship and alternate caregivers come from all walks of life. They may be grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, family friends, or other trusted members of a child’s community. What they share is a commitment to providing stability, safety, and belonging during some of the most challenging moments in a young person’s life.
As a child and youth-focused organization, CCAS understands the importance of maintaining meaningful connections to family, culture, community, and identity. Kinship and alternate care arrangements help preserve those connections while ensuring children and youth receive the care, support, and encouragement they need to grow, learn, and thrive. These caregivers play a vital role in helping young people build resilience, maintain important relationships, and feel connected to the people and communities that matter most to them.
Kinship and alternate care are about much more than providing a place to live. They are about creating a sense of home. Caregivers offer daily guidance, celebrate milestones, provide comfort during difficult times, and help children and youth navigate life’s challenges with confidence and hope. Their dedication has a lasting impact that extends well beyond the present moment.
This week is also an opportunity to recognize the collaboration that makes these placements successful. Strong partnerships between caregivers, children and youth, families, and CCAS staff help create the supportive environments that young people need to flourish. Together, we work toward shared goals of well-being, stability, permanency, and positive outcomes for every child and youth in our care.
With that, we would also like to acknowledge our Kinship Assessment, Kinship Service, Resource, and support teams for their ongoing dedication and expertise. Their compassion, advocacy, and commitment help strengthen families and support caregivers every step of the way.
To all kinship and alternate caregivers: thank you. Your patience, resilience, generosity, and unwavering care make an immeasurable difference in the lives of children and youth every day. This week, and throughout the year, we celebrate you and the vital role you play in helping young people build brighter futures.