Whereas youth in the care of the Ministry of Children and Family Development often lose significant access to services when they age out of care at age 19; And whereas youth in care have been shown to struggle with this transition and be at risk for homelessness, and mental health and addictions issues: Therefore be it resolved that the provincial government be requested to develop transition services for youth in care that extend services to the age of 24.
Ministry of Children and Family Development 2018 Government agrees that every young person needs a helping hand into adulthood. That is why BCs priorities are to increase funding for Agreements with Young Adults AYA in order to offer supports to all youth aging out of care who need it, not just a few; and for us to work with the Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training to expand the tuition fee waiver program and provide enhanced supports for former youth in care who pursue post-secondary education. The AYA program is the only legislative program that allows the Ministry to stay connected and continue to support young adults who have transitioned from government care. It provides support and financial assistance for up to 48 months, and helps young adults to finish high school, learn job skills from a vocational program, attend college or university, andor complete a life skills or a rehabilitative program in order to successfully transition to adulthood. Helping more young adults access AYA is a clear priority for our government. Barriers will be addressed to increase program uptake and provide more supports so no young adult is left behind. Government has shown its commitment to helping young people from care as they transition to adulthood as there is already progress made towards these priorities. BC has expanded the tuition waiver program so that former youth in care from BC, have the opportunity and financial support to attend post-secondary education or training. Ministry of Children and Family Development 2016 Government agrees that every young person needs a helping hand into adulthood. That is why B.C. has made changes to the Agreements with Young Adults AYA program to ensure more young people in care are supported for longer and have the opportunity to succeed in building the life that they deserve. Government has shown its commitment to helping young people from care as they transition to adulthood. The amendment to the Child, Family and Community Service Act makes B.C. a leader in Canada, exceeding many of the supports and services other jurisdictions offer by doubling the length of time youth can receive AYA supportsfrom two to now four years. The expansion of the program also increases the eligible age of enrolment in AYAfrom a young adults 24th birthday to their 26th birthdayand adds Life Skills programming as an eligible program for former youth in care which support a solid foundation for adulthood.