Review of the Operation of the Winnipeg Child & Family Services Emergency Assessment Placement Department (EAPD) Shelter System

In December 2002, the Honourable Minister of Family Services and Housing Drew Caldwell, requested that the Office of the Children's Advocate complete a review into the operation of Winnipeg Child and Family Services (WCFS), Emergency Assessment Placement Department (EAPD) shelter system. Its purpose was to document and assess the shelter system and to make recommendations on the use of shelters to care for children and youth. In addition the review
was to provide a forum for the voices of children and youth residing in the shelters system.

A three-member team composed of Janet Mirwaldt, the Children's Advocate and Children's Advocacy Officers Jill Perron and Susan Thomas conducted the review. A shelter review advisory committee made up of members from Voices Manitoba Youth in Care, Marymound Inc. and the Department of Family Services and Housing (DFSH) assisted the review team.