Homeless Youths and the Child Welfare System: Implications for Policy and Services
Description:
Child welfare services in Canada offer little for youths age 16 to 19, and community resources are hard pressed to extend assistance to this challenged population. Current child welfare policy and practice in Canada and the plight of homeless youths in Canada are examined. Reviews existing studies and describes some programs for homeless youth in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Notes that child welfare systems in Canada re not designed to deal with the problems and needs of adolescents. A large number of homeless youth have experienced the effects of poverty: family turmoil, break-up, or transiency in dysfunctional homes (alcoholism, drug abuse, marital discord, violence); family changes (separation, divorce, remarriage); or removal from the home (placement into care). The author recommends that homeless youths require both basic care and ongoing support if they are to set their lives toward achieving productive, self-enhancing goals and a useful place within the community. Describes Phoenix House, a long-term residential program for homeless youth, and several other programs.
Type of Resource:
Journal
Publication Date:
1995
Journal Name:
Child welfare
Volume:
74
Issue:
3
Pages:
717
Location:
Halifax