Prevention

As the old adage tells us, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Without programs to restore their physical and mental health, many abused and neglected children ultimately replicate their own experiences. We believe that providing help and support where its needed today prevents far more serious problems from arising in the future.

In the 2006-2007 fiscal year, the Children’s Aid Foundation supported over 70 community prevention initiatives in impoverished, newcomer and refugee communities where child welfare agencies are actively delivering service. The types of initiatives include substance abuse prevention programs, youth mentoring and counseling, immigration and migration programs, ESL, foodbanks, mental health assistance, family resource centres and parenting programs.

The Children's Aid Foundation has developed the following strategic prevention priorities:

• Education

• Family violence

• Community safety

• Outreach and engagement with newcomer communities

• Support services for high-risk children, youth and families

Program Highlight - New Horizons

The New Horizons: Healing and Hope program was piloted to provide counseling and varied support services to children who have suffered from the traumatic effects of war in their home country. This art and play therapy group helps them to overcome their overwhelming feelings of sadness and anxiety and teaches them to better cope with their personal experiences. Parents are also guided on creating environments that facilitate positive parenting and communication skills.

Program Highlight - PARC

The Pape Adolescent Resource Centre (PARC) is a preparation for independance program serving youth in care, and former youth in care, who are between the ages of 15-24 years old. PARC works with these young people to help them learn to help themselves and each other through their transition to self-sufficiency. Support is offered in the areas of employment, education, housing, identity, sexuality, mental health, substance abuse and life skills.

For more information on Prevention programs please contact Pat Kemp at pkemp@cafdn.org  or 416-923-0924 x228