News Release
New Supports for Youth Leaving Care
Ontario Helping Young People Prepare for Independence
Ministry of Children and Youth Services
Health Benefits
The Ontario province is investing in a new Aftercare Benefits Initiative. Starting this summer, eligible young people ages 21 to 24, who were previously in the care of a Children’s Aid Society, can access:
- Health and dental services, including prescription drugs, vision care and hearing aids.
- Extended health services, such as physiotherapy, psychotherapy, acupuncture, and chiropractic treatment.
- Additional benefits, including therapy and counselling.
Transition Workers
Ontario is helping young people leaving the care of Children’s Aid Societies find the right supports and services by creating 50 Youth-in-Transition worker positions across the province.
The Youth-in-Transition workers will help young people ages 16 to 24 by:
- Securing local affordable housing.
- Finding education and employment resources to help cover the cost of postsecondary education and training, or to find a job.
- Identifying skills training, such as financial literacy courses and meal planning.
- Accessing health and mental health services like being connected with a family doctor and counselling.
- Locating legal services, including advice for youth in the justice system.
For more information.