The province has increased its funding for Child and Family Programs by $4.9 million in this fiscal year, as was announced in the provincial budget. The Ministry of Social Services will contract with 106 third-party service providers that support at-risk children, youth and families in their homes and communities, for an estimated total of $174 million.

The Ministry is also investing an additional $825,000 to increase the basic maintenance rate for foster families and extended family caregivers. As well, $1.4 million will mean being able to add 18 new Child Service Workers, supporting children and youth in care and $350,000 for six additional staff to enhance oversight capacity, strengthen investigation services and help support community-based organizations.

Saskatchewan Foster Families Association Executive Director, Deb Davies says this increase recognizes the important role that foster families and family-based caregivers play in providing a safe and supportive network for children and youth in crisis.”