What we do
The Children’s Aid Foundation of Ottawa (CAFO) supports children, youth and families connected to the Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa (CASO) by funding programs that fill gaps in the child welfare system.
While CAFO collaborates with CASO, it operates independently and does not fund or duplicate government-mandated services. Instead, the foundation directs resources to unmet needs, providing enhanced support outside the scope of public funding.
Last year 61 youth received a Dare to Dream Bursary to pursue post-secondary education.
“I was in foster care off and on for 15 years, and life was not easy growing up. Kids like me that often end up as a statistic rely on your generous contributions to better our lives and futures,”
— Dare to Dream bursary recipient
Another 175 youth were supported last year in their transition out of care into independence.
“She said she feels like she really has a “home” to return to… She said it’s so peaceful now. She has all of her belongings out of storage for the first time in five years,” — CASO social worker
In addition, 235 children and youth created lifelong memories at March Break and summer camps.
“This experience was amazing. The boys came back from camp closer than ever and the older boy was able to return home as a result of his new relationship with his brother,”
— CASO social worker
Top fundraising priorities
- Youth transition programs: Youth aging out of care are among the most vulnerable in our community. CAFO equips them with the skills, networks, and resources to build independence and long-term stability.
- Support for children in care: Children in foster or residential care often lack the stability their peers enjoy. CAFO ensures they are supported, connected, and able to succeed.
- Prevention-based programs for families: Although 91 per cent of child welfare services in Ottawa support children at home, most public funding is directed to children already in care, leaving a critical gap for struggling families. CAFO fills this gap by providing prevention-based supports that strengthen families and help children thrive in safe, nurturing homes.
When you join the Dream Launcher donor community, you help change the lives of over 2,500 children, youth, and families every year.
This article first appeared in the 2025 Giving Guide produced by the Ottawa Business Journal. That publication is available in its digital edition below.
To learn more about this charity, please visit the latest issue of the Giving Guide:
