For the Provincial Government to best meet the needs of youth during the COVID-19 pandemic

Recommendation 1: Provide reliable technology to all youth in need. Technology for all youth needs to be seen as a basic need and high priority at this time. The inequities in access to technology are resulting in increased disparity in access to education—and potentially life-saving support to vulnerable youth. Youth need access to internet, cell-phones, laptops, and printers in order to have equal access to education and supports.

For the Provincial Government to best meet the needs of youth during the COVID-19 pandemic

Recommendation 2: Provide universal and comprehensive after-care supports post 19 for all youth in the foster care system regardless of their circumstance with waitlists eliminated. Non-profits are concerned about their capacity to support a larger cohort of youth aging out all at once. There should be a wind down period where non-profits can get their level of support back to “normal.”

For the Provincial Government to best meet the needs of youth during the COVID-19 pandemic

Recommendation 3: Develop a Contingency Plan for every youth in care that includes alternative housing options and supports, including considerations and plans based on the youth’s culture.

For the Provincial Government to best meet the needs of youth during the COVID-19 pandemic

Recommendation 4: Support foster parents with increased pay or respite to help youth remain in the home. Provide education to the youth and foster parents around social distancing.