AMC comments on the Manitoba government’s decision to extend essential supports for youth aging out of the CFS system during the COVID-19 pandemic
April 8, 2020
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
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Treaty One Territory, Manitoba. The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) is wary of today’s announcement from the government of Manitoba that supports and services will continue to be provided for foster children aging out of care when they reach 18 years of age for the duration of COVID-19 pandemic.
Assembly of Manitoba Chief Grand Chief Arlen Dumas said “Providing additional supports and services for youth aging out of care, many of them First Nations, has long been advocated by the AMC and others. This announcement, albeit temporary only until September 30, 2020, is a measure that will protect many First Nation young adults.”
Considering the fact that at least 50% of homeless people surveyed by the 2018 Winnipeg Street Census were involved with CFS and also determined that 66% of homeless people who were involved with CFS were homeless within the first year of aging out of care, this action will save lives of these youth. Premier Pallister has offered loose commitments to addressing the issues identified in the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls National Inquiry Report. Young women aging out of the CFS system in the midst a global pandemic should easily be a priority without limitation.