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.