Every day, staff at Hamilton Children’s Aid Society are focused on the safety and well-being of children, youth, families, in the Hamilton community. While many things are changing, sometimes on a daily basis, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the agency’s commitment to serving families has not. Hamilton CAS remains open and is providing core child protection services, with a focus on keeping children and youth safe.
“If at any time you are concerned about the safety and/or well-being of a child or youth under the age of 18, please call us,” says Bryan Shone, Executive Director, Hamilton CAS. “Now, more than ever, there are children, youth and families in our community, and in care, that need our support and our service. This is truly an unprecedented time, with additional stressors and pressures affecting many families. We want families we work with to know that we are here, and if you need support, please reach out.”
Wherever possible, agency staff are working remotely while still serving the children, youth and families in our community. “I would like to acknowledge the extraordinary dedication of our front line staff who are working tirelessly to serve families and keep children and youth safe during this difficult time,” adds Shone. “We are continually exploring ways that we can support the youth and the families who may be in crisis during these extraordinary circumstances. For example, youth in our care who are turning 21 will continue to receive financial and worker support, and youth who are turning 18 and would typically be moving towards independence will be able to stay in their current placements.”
“I would also like to recognize and thank our foster and kin caregivers. I am truly inspired by their dedication and commitment to working with us to keep children and youth safe,” says Shone. “By working together, we are able to continue to support those in our community who are most vulnerable.”
As the agency provides service, we remain committed to doing our part to proactively help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community. We make all of our decisions based on recommendations from Public Health Ontario and Hamilton Public Health. Some adjustments have been made to do this including limiting those who come to the agency to a small group of staff, those with appointments, anyone reporting child protection concerns and couriers. Those coming into the agency can expect to be asked a series of screening questions and will have to practice physical distancing.
Hamilton Children’s Aid is committed to doing everything we can to continue to serve our community during this unprecedented time. Please check our website at www.hamiltoncas.com and our social media sites for up to date information.
For more information please contact:
Tracy MacIsaac, Communications, Hamilton CAS
tmacisaac@hamiltoncas.com
905-522-1121 ext. 6465
