York Region Children’s Aid Society (YRCAS), and York Region Alliance of African Canadian Communities (YRAACC) are proud to announce the creation of the African Canadian Child Welfare Ushauri (ACCWU).
This initiative was developed in partnership with community organizations to enhance and transform service delivery to the Black community across York Region.
This initiative reflects our commitment to the One Vision One Voice (OVOV) Race Equity Principles and marks an important step toward addressing the persistent disproportionality and disparities experienced by African Canadian children, youth, and families within the child welfare system.
About the ACCWU
Launched in November 2024, ACCWU was created to systemically address the overrepresentation and unequal outcomes faced by Black families involved in the child welfare system.
Our collective efforts are focused on:
• Promoting and supporting cultural identity and community connections
• Advocating for equity and justice within child welfare systems
• Fostering success, thriving, and resilience for Black children, youth, and young adults
• Ensuring the voices and lived experiences of Black families inform and guide our work
This initiative represents not only a response to systemic challenges but also a vision for a future where every Black child, youth, and family is seen, valued, and supported to thrive.
List of ACCWU Community Members
• Aurora Black Community Association
• CAYR Community Connections
• Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
• Centennial College
• 360°kids
• City of Markham
• The Village Creative Healing Community
• Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA)
• City of Vaughan
• YRCAS – Resource Caregiver & Humber College Faculty – Professor
• John Howard Society of York Region
• York Region Alliance of African Canadian Communities (YRAACC)
• Centennial College
• York Region District School Board (YRDSB)
We look forward to continuing this important journey in collaboration with our partners and the community.
