From the Times Colonist:

The provincial government recently pulled the rug out from under the Children in the Home of a Relative Program, funded through the Ministry of Housing and Social Development. On April 1, it stopped accepting new applications.

The government offloaded this program onto the Ministry of Children and Families with a new name — the Extended Family Program.

The criteria state only a “biological parent” can apply for funding. This disqualifies any relative with legal guardianship of the child even if they have great need. This has created a roadblock, particularly if the child does not live with the biological parent.

About 4,000 grandparents and relatives were receiving this funding and as the biological parents often don’t exist, are suffering from a mental illness or addiction, may be incarcerated or street-engaged, and could have an estranged relationship with the grandparents caring for their child, the care-givers will not be receiving any kind of assistance from the government. read more