KAWARTHA LAKES-The province has appointed a new supervisor at Kawartha Haliburton Children’s Aid Society amid allegations of mismanagement.
“Today, I have appointed Rosaleen Cutler as supervisor for the Kawartha Haliburton Children’s Aid Society (KHCAS) to oversee and operate the society and help ensure the safety and well-being of children and youth receiving services. Although the government does not direct children’s aid societies on placement decisions, we require them to ensure placements are safe, appropriate and meet the child’s needs. That’s not an option: it’s the law.” said Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, Michael Parsa.
The Ministry says it has provided $4.6 million over and above the KHCAS’ funding allocation since 2020-21. Parsa says various ministry-led reviews have identified a number of significant risks related to the overall operations and financial management of the society.
“In addition, the ministry does not have confidence in the society’s ability to make the necessary strategic decisions to address its growing deficit and operational issues, which may negatively impact the safety and quality of protection services that vulnerable children and youth depend on.”
Rosaleen Cutler will be responsible for overseeing the operations and managing the society in place of the Board of Directors and Executive Director, for up to a year. During her term Cutler will address the society’s growing financial and operational issues.
“Ms. Cutler is a respected leader in human services whose experience reflects an inclusive, partnership-based strategic approach. She brings extensive child welfare and transformation experience, and a demonstrated ability of working partnerships within organizations and externally with diverse communities.” continued Parsa
Regulatory amendments associated with the Supporting Children’s Futures Act, 2024 made earlier this year require children’s aid societies to visit children in society care every thirty days – up from every ninety days.
