Vulnerable children and youth in Alberta severely impacted by COVID-19, study finds
The results of a study looking into the health and well-being of children and youth during the pandemic have identified a number of issues that must be addressed, the Alberta government said Friday.
The Child and Youth Well-being Review Panel gathered data from researchers, educators, health care professionals and mental health experts throughout the summer and fall to help understand the impacts of COVID-19 on Alberta parents and children.
It found that while most have been resilient when it comes to the pandemic's challenges, those in vulnerable situations were affected the most.
"We were really surprised by some of the food security issues of some of the kids and families in the province were experiencing," said Kelly Schwartz, a registered psychologist and member of the panel. "When you have that base level human need, that puts in priority very quickly how you address your school, how you address your family functioning."
The government adds the panel also helped understand the unique impacts of the pandemic and lays the framework, based on its recommendations, for "a cross-government action plan."
"Childhood and adolescence are critical developmental periods that can profoundly affect future health and well-being. I am extremely grateful to everyone involved in this review and look forward to the next steps in supporting our children and youth as we continue to navigate the pandemic," said Health Minister Jason Copping in a statement.
More than 10,000 Albertans submitted feedback via online surveys and virtual town halls, the province says, adding that since the pandemic began, more than $165 million has been allocated for childcare supports.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
![](https://www.ctvnews.ca/polopoly_fs/1.6979388.1722030190!/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_800/image.jpg)
Celine Dion delivers stirring comeback performance at Paris Olympics opening ceremony
Against the rainy Paris night sky, Celine Dion staged the comeback of her career with a powerful performance from the Eiffel Tower to open the Olympic Games.
Jasper wildfire: 'Several weeks' before residents can return, premier says
Premier Danielle Smith said Friday afternoon in Hinton while weather conditions are cooler, the Jasper fire is still considered out of control and that Jasper residents can expect to be away from their homes 'for several weeks.'
Missing 3-year-old boy found dead in creek in Mississauga: police
A three-year-old boy has been found dead a day after he went missing in a park in Mississauga, Peel police say.
Irish museum pulls Sinead O'Connor waxwork after just one day due to backlash
An Irish museum will withdraw a waxwork of singer-songwriter Sinéad O'Connor just one day after installing it, following a backlash from her family and the public, it told CNN in a statement on Friday.
Winnipeg senior's account overdrawn for $146,000 water bill
A Winnipeg senior is getting soaked with a six-figure water bill.
Turpel-Lafond won't sue CBC over Cree heritage report that took 'heavy toll': lawyer
The lawyer for a former judge whose claims to be Cree were questioned in a CBC investigation says his client is not considering legal action against the broadcaster after the Law Society of British Columbia this week backed her claims of Indigenous heritage.
Driver charged after flashing high beams at approaching police
Orillia OPP arrested and charged a driver with impaired driving after flashing their high beams.
Major Canadian bank experiences direct deposit outage on payday
Scotiabank says it has fixed a technical issue that impacted direct deposits on Friday morning.
Health Canada warns some naloxone kits contain false instructions
Health Canada is warning some take-home naloxone kits come with bad instructions that should be ignored in favour of the correct guidance.