Children and youth

Regional Child and Family Services Authorities will see a $44 million (7.2 per cent) increase in 2005-06 to improve the delivery and quality of services for children, youth and families across Alberta. Supporting children with disabilities is also a focus of Budget 2006.

Children with disabilities

Alberta children with disabilities will benefit from an 11 per cent increase to expand services for their families, especially in rural and remote areas. This $8.8 million increase brings total support for this program to nearly $92 million a year.

Protecting children

Child Intervention Services will also see a funding increase. An additional $22 million (a 5.4 per cent increase) will enhance the regional delivery of prevention and protection services to children and families.

This includes the introduction of the Drug Endangered Children Act, providing steps to be taken to rescue, protect, and shelter children exposed to drug manufacturing/trafficking.

Other highlights

• Improving community-based protection and prevention services and supports for children and families (e.g., victims of family violence or bullying).
• Providing additional support for the Advancing Futures Educational Bursary program, which helps youth who have been in government care and are pursuing educational or apprenticeship programs.

Advancing Futures Educational Bursary program - details (Adobe pdf, opens in a new window)