• Stronger kids. Stronger communities.

    The Children’s Aid Foundation of Nova Scotia is dedicated to helping children and youth involved or at risk of involvement with the child welfare system. We offer a wide range of programs designed to respond quickly and compassionately to their unique needs.

    SHOP TO SUPPORT CAFNS 

How we help

  • Health and Well-Being

    We help cover the cost of essential needs like dental care, mental health support, and other medical services not otherwise accessible.

  • Education

    From tutoring support to post-secondary bursaries, we’re committed to helping youth reach their academic goals and unlock new opportunities.

  • Recreation

    Every child deserves the chance to play, grow, and connect. We fund access to sports, art classes, camps, and other enriching experiences.

  • Support for Former Youth in Care

    Transitioning out of care can be overwhelming. We provide resources, financial support, and guidance to help former youth in care navigate adulthood with confidence.
SEE OUR PROGRAMS

Stories of support

Parent of grant recipients

"Cheerleading has offered far more than just a chance to engage in a sport—it has been a powerful outlet for growth and development. Through their team, my children have formed lasting friendships and discovered a strong sense of community and belonging. Your generosity made it possible for my children to fully participate, grow in confidence, and experience the incredible rewards that come from dedication and teamwork.”

Support worker for recipient

“I just wanted to let you know that thanks to the emergency fund we were able to secure through your organization, the mattress and box spring were successfully delivered today. We are very grateful we were able to make it happen, which would not have been possible without your collaboration.”

Recipient of Education Achievement Award

"Thank you for your contribution to my schooling. Every moment of success I have, I know someone is along supporting me. This keeps me working harder. I got a 3.320 GPA for first semester!"

Shop to support youth in need

Proceeds from our symbolic shop go towards providing vulnerable Nova Scotian kids with health, well-being, recreational, educational and transitional support.

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Some frequently asked questions

How do I apply for funds?

Most of our grants have to be applied for by a social or support worker. Workers can apply for our grants on their clients' behalf. If you are a social or support worker, please click here.

What do you fund?

We provide a wide range of funding for vulnerable kids and youth. Our mandate was kept purposefully broad so that we are able to respond quickly and with flexibility to various requests. Our main funding categories are: health and wellbeing, education, recreation, and youth transitioning out of care.

How do grants get decided on?

Once a week, our Grant Committee meets to review the applications. As we meet every week, we are able to respond to inquiries within 1-2 weeks, typically.

Are you funded by the Government?

While we do apply for grants that the government offers, we are not part of the government. We are an independent non-profit organization offering funding to youth in Nova Scotia.

  • 11,000+

    youth supported

  • $2M+

    distributed across Nova Scotia

  • 14 grants

    available to youth in need

Our community partners

Help us act fast when kids are in need

Support brighter futures for children and youth in Nova Scotia. Discover how you can help through donations, volunteering, fundraising, and more.

SUPPORT CHILDREN IN NEED