2024-2025 vs. 2025-2026

2024-2025 vs. 2025-2026 

As we conclude another fiscal year at the Children's Aid Foundation of Nova Scotia (CAFNS), we find ourselves at an important stage. While our purpose to help vulnerable children and youth across the province remains unchanged, the world they live in has become more complex and costly. When we compare the 2024-2025 fiscal year to 2025-2026, the data clearly shows that the needs have never been higher. 

CAFNS’ Reach 

One of the most noticeable trends this year is the range of our support. CAFNS's mandate is to service every area of Nova Scotia, from Cape Breton to Yarmouth, and everything in between. We are more than just a Halifax-based organization; we are a province-wide resource for vulnerable children and youth.  

We are seeing more requests coming in from all corners of the province. CAFNS has helped children and youth in 176% more cities and towns this year than last. This massive geographic expansion demonstrates that the needs are increasing, both rurally and in urban centers.  

Recreation 

One of our key initiatives focuses on providing funding for at-risk children and youth to participate in recreational programming. At CAFNS we believe recreation is a necessity, not a luxury. Joining a hockey team or taking an art class is more than just a method for a youth to pass the time; it is an important opportunity for them to develop the confidence and sense of belonging they require to succeed.  

Compared to 2024-25, requests for recreation increased by 89%. It’s evident that as the cost-of-living rises, families struggle to maintain these essential outlets. Our donors ensure that no youth is left on the sidelines while their friends participate. The life-changing impact of this support is best described by Melissa, a Community Support Worker: "I applied for funding so a young person I support could join hockey. Before that, they were skipping school and often getting into trouble. Once they started playing, everything changed. They found something they loved, started showing up, and stayed out of trouble. It truly changed their life.” 

Another key program is funding health and well-being requests for at-risk children and youth. This may be for eyeglasses, medication, therapy, dental, or more.  

We have seen a 43% increase in health-related requests. This rise reflects a healthcare situation where families are increasingly desperate for specialized support. When a social worker comes to us because a child needs mental health therapy that they can’t afford, we say "yes" because we know that waiting isn't an option. The impact of this immediate support is clear in the stories we hear from Renee, a Community Support Worker in HRM who shared the difference something as simple as a pair of glasses can make: “Without the support of CAFNS, many students would have had to continue their education without prescription glasses. As anyone who requires the use of glasses, you all know how truly magical being able to see clearly really is, with the support of CAFNS, kids got that magic.” 

Nova Scotia Youth Fund 

The Nova Scotia Youth Fund supports former youth in care up to age 28. Requests are to support them with whatever need they have: debt relief, rent, groceries, car repairs, and more.  

Compared to 2024-25, requests for the Nova Scotia Youth Fund increased by 109%. This increase is an important reminder of the economic challenges that our youth face as they strive to live independent lives. We are proud to be the "family" they can rely on when things get tough. 

Tutoring 

Our tutoring fund supports children and youth to reach their educational goals up to the age of 21. Compared to 2024-25, requests for tutoring increased by 176%. The youth we serve are incredibly resilient and motivated to succeed; they want to reach their goals, and they aren't afraid to ask for the tools to get there. By funding tutors for youth up to age 21, we are investing in the future workforce and leadership of Nova Scotia.