Foster and Kinship Care: An Examination of the Legislation that Aims to Improve Permanency and Continuity of Care in Ontario

Abstract

Changes to the Ontario child welfare system in 2006 were based on the premise that expanding kinship placement options for children in the care of the Society would improve permanency outcomes and minimize placement disruptions. This study examined whether foster care or kinship care were associated with permanency outcomes and continuity of care of children. Analyses indicated that children living in foster care were more likely to achieve permanency, but were more likely to be separated from siblings. Children in kinship care were more likely to engage in running (AWOL) behaviour. There were no differences in placement disruptions, with both kinship and foster care placements exhibiting strength and dedication to youth stability. These findings suggest that Ontario legislation promoting kinship care may not contribute to improved permanency for children as originally anticipated.