Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017 (CYFSA)

The Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017 (CYFSA) recognizes that each of us has a responsibility for the well-being of children and youth and its purpose is to promote the best interests, protection, and well-being of children and youth.

This provincial law gives Children’s Aid Societies the responsibility to investigate concerns about the safety and well-being of children and youth from birth to 17 years of age and to provide child protection services.

In Ontario, it is the law to report suspected child abuse or neglect. Section 125 of the CYFSA states that members of the public, including professionals who work with children, must promptly report any suspicions that a child under the age of 16 is, or may be, in need of protection to a children’s aid society. An individual concerned that a 16- or 17-year-old is, or may be in need of protection may, but is not required to, make a report to a Children’s Aid Society. For more information, please see Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect: It’s Your Duty.

Children’s Aid Societies are committed to protecting children and youth in the community. We work in collaboration with community partners to ensure the well-being of children and youth and to strengthen the family unit and the communities in which they live.

If you have a concern about a child at risk, we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year at: (416) 924-4646 or toll free at 1-866-527-0833.