Manitoba has committed $34.7 million in funding to expand services and programming to support children and families.

$24.9 million will go to enhance the Child and Family Services (CFS) system in the hopes of achieving better outcomes for minors in care.

“This investment in supports for children, youth and families is an investment in Manitoba’s future prosperity,” said Families Minister Rochelle Squires.

$11 million of the funding is for a one-time grant to help agencies address wage, recruitment and retention issues. $7.3 million will support programming for your transitioning from care.

“Our government is committed to supporting youth exiting care as they transition to adulthood,” said Squires. “As we continue working toward the development of a long-term, comprehensive strategy that will improve outcomes for youth transitioning from care, we are investing in programming that will ensure youth have access to the services and benefits they need.”

The minister highlighted that a $4.7-million investment in the Support for Young Adults Grant will support youth transitioning from CFS care to receive supports and services up to the age of 26.