WHEREAS many small and midsized communities are critically lacking in support services for youth at risk of becoming homeless or engaged in at risk activities; AND WHEREAS these youth require guidance and education to protect them and help them to become productive adults in society: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government increase funding and expand youth outreach and street worker programs.
Ministry of Children Family Development The Ministry for Children and Family Development MCFD is committed to ensuring the safety of British Columbias children and youth by providing services for vulnerable youth engaged in at risk activities. MCFDs commitment and funding to youth issues supports numerous community initiatives or programs that work to support youth, including programs that provide emergency case management, crisis counselling, safe housing, outreach programs, life skills training, services for sexually exploited youth, mediation services and other important services. To assist vulnerable youth at risk, there is an array of voluntary, community based services available. Youth are also supported through Youth Agreements which provide residential, educational or other support services, and financial assistance through a Plan for Independence and Agreements with Young Adults which supports youth transition into adulthood. The number of youth supported has risen over the years. For example, youth supported through Youth Agreements increased from 463 March 2007 to 706 March 2010 and former youth in care supported through Agreements with Young Adults increased from 325 March 2009 to 368 March 2010. In addition, MCFDs youth services budget has increased from approximately 31M in 200708 to approximately 40M in 201011.