About Us - The Children's Aid Society of Algoma

The Children’s Aid Society of Algoma is a non-profit, community organization legally mandated to protect children and youth from abuse and neglect. We are governed by a volunteer Board of Directors who are elected from within the community. Programs and services are developed in response to the needs of children, youth, and families in our community.

Children’s Aid Societies are regulated by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) and governed by the Ontario Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017 (CYFSA).

The Children’s Aid Society of Algoma strives to ensure the safety and well-being of the community’s children and youth, with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through culturally-competent services, with the support of the community, we help parents and caregivers build healthy families and provide a safe environment for children and youth.

Keeping children safe is a community responsibility.

We receive many calls each year from concerned citizens, teachers, police, other agencies, and health care professionals about children and families who may need help. Families may be facing challenges such as poverty, unemployment, ill health, domestic violence, or mental health issues. Some families just need parenting support. When a family needs support, we link them to a variety of community services. Together, with community service colleagues, we work with children and families for a stronger, healthier community.

Under the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017, Children’s Aid Societies are mandated to:

Investigate allegations or evidence that children under the age of 18 may be in need of protection
Protect children where necessary
Provide guidance, counselling, and other services to families for protecting children or preventing circumstances requiring the protection of children
Provide care and supervision for children assigned or committed to its care
Facilitate the adoption process for children when needed

We believe that children belong with their families and our work is done with families and children in their own homes.

For children and teens who are unable to safely remain in their own home, or have no parent or guardian available, we ensure they are placed in a safe and caring environment with members of their extended family (kin), family friends, or a foster caregiver. Many of the children who come to foster families have experienced some form of abuse or neglect and need a loving, stable environment to help them recover from their experience. We provide ongoing support to children in care and their kinship or foster caregivers.
The Children’s Aid Society also facilitates public adoptions for children and youth.

Mission & Vision

Mission

The Children’s Aid Society of Algoma is committed to protecting children and promoting their well-being by working collaboratively with children, families, and communities through service excellence.

Vision

Protecting Children, Strengthening Families throughout the District of Algoma

Values

Accountability

We will be accountable and responsible to ensure our resources are utilized efficiently to achieve our Mission and Vision.

Collaboration

We will work with individuals, families and children, our community partners, OACAS, and MCCYS to meet the respective service and accountability goals.

Excellence

We will strive for excellence and continuous quality improvement in all we do.

Respect

We are committed to creating and cultivating positive relationships within the organization, and with the individuals and families we serve. We will use anti-oppressive practice and principles and respect the spirit and intent of the Ontario Human Rights Code.

Integrity

We will adhere to our organizational Code of Ethics and our respective professional Codes of Ethics for the purposes of service delivery, community engagement, and for the administration of the business of Child Welfare.

Innovation

We will endeavor to deliver services and administer Child Welfare services using creative and innovative approaches that will be measurable and lead to positive outcomes for children, youth, and families.