YMCA of SWO is proud to partner with the CAS of London & Middlesex to build healthy communities
At the Y, our mission is to build healthy communities. By partnering with individuals and organizations that support our mission, we’re able to reach more people and accomplish our goals together. YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is incredibly excited to welcome Children’s Aid Society of London & Middlesex (CASLM) kinship and care provider families as well as children in care into our Health, Fitness, & Aquatics branches. In doing so, our two organizations are ensuring that all children and families have access to programs and services to lead healthy, active, supported, and connected lives, enabling them to reach their full potential.
“We are completely aligned to CASLM’s vision that ‘all children and youth grow and thrive in their families, cultures, and communities.’ The Y is excited to open our doors and invite these children and youth, as well as their kinship and care provider families, to a place where they will experience belonging, acceptance, empathy, in a fun, safe, and caring environment.” Andrew Lockie, CEO, YMCA of Southwestern Ontario.
The Children’s Aid Society of London & Middlesex is one of 48 non-profit CAS organizations in Ontario. Their goals are to ensure that all children and youth are safe and supported within their unique cultures and communities, and that society is working collaboratively with families and communities to promote the safe and healthy development of children and youth. On average, they work with over 700 families and 2700 children and youth in London & Middlesex each year.
“We are elated to enter into this life changing partnership with the YMCA. Over 800 children and youth, kinship and care provider families will now have the ability to engage in healthy supportive community activities, free from barriers, and in a critical time as society emerges from the pandemic. There couldn’t be a more important time for connection to our community and we are grateful to the YMCA for providing this support.” Kristian Wilson, Service Director, Children’s Aid Society of London & Middlesex.
It is written “it takes a village to raise a child” and the Y is thrilled to be a part of this village with the Children’s Aid Society of London & Middlesex.
Every child and youth deserves a permanent meaningful relationship, safety and support. There are many opportunities for people who wish to become Foster Adopt Care Providers through CAS. They are seeking adults from all communities to provide stable and supportive families for children and youth who either need temporary care on their path to permanency or a permanent home. Learn more about becoming a Foster Adopt Care Provider at the following website: www.caslondon.on.ca/foster_adopt/how_to.
