On September 24, 2025, Catholic Children’s Aid Society of Toronto (CCAS) proudly hosted a powerful Community Discussion to mark the official launch of the Male Engagement Worker (MEW) Program—now expanded to include the Children’s Aid Society of Toronto (CAST) as a partner agency.
The event brought together community leaders, child welfare professionals, and service partners for an afternoon rooted in connection, collaboration, and courageous conversation. Dionne Martin opened the gathering with heartfelt gratitude and a clear call to action: to listen deeply, learn openly, and build stronger relationships that lead to stronger systems.
A highlight of the day was the co-presentation by Janey Cordeiro, MEW Project Sponsor at CCAS, and Shareen MacFarlane, Program Lead at Catholic Family Services of Toronto. Together, they shared the vision and impact of the MEW Program—a transformative initiative designed to support fathers and male caregivers through counselling, system navigation, and psychoeducational groups. The model bridges service gaps and brings support directly to families, particularly in the context of domestic violence, where safety, accountability, and healing are paramount.
Originally piloted in September 2022 by CCAS and Catholic Family Services, the MEW Program was developed to help child protection teams engage men more meaningfully and promote safer outcomes for children. In May 2024, CCAS submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) under the Child Welfare Innovation and Change Program. In January 2025, we were awarded $1.5 million in funding to expand the model and deepen this critical work across the sector. A special recognition and note of gratitude to the MCCSS for recognizing the importance of this work and funding the pilot program.
This achievement reflects the dedication of many. Special thanks to Stephanie Panzarella, Project Lead, and Esther Addo, Supervisor of MEW and VAW at CCAS, whose leadership and vision have guided the initiative from the beginning. Their close partnership with Shareen MacFarlane has anchored the program and will continue to shape its future.
To our MEW workers, governance teams, and new partners at CAST—thank you. Your commitment to doing things differently has made this shared labour of love a reality. Together, we are building a more responsive, integrated child welfare system—one that recognizes the importance of engaging fathers and supporting families with compassion, courage, and care.