Voluntary Youth Services Agreements (VYSA)

A Voluntary Youth Services Agreements (VYSA) aims to help youth ages 16 and 17. Youth will be supported with learning skills for independence, access supports and programs to meet their identified needs, develop goals around educational success and employment, and support their connections to important people in their life.

Eligibility for a Voluntary Youth Services Agreement

Voluntary Youth Services Agreements (VYSA) are available for youth who:

Are aged 16 or 17
Cannot be adequately protected at home or in their current living situation
Have no other safe options with family or friends
Need an out-of-home placement
Are agreeable to work within the terms of the VYSA agreement, including but not limited to:
- Meeting with Society worker on regular basis;
- Consent and agree to continue to explore family connections and permanency options;
- Are agreeable to mutually established goals.

Apply

If you are concerned that a 16 or 17-year-old may be in need of protection; or if you are a 16 or 17-year-old and you think you may be in need of protection, you can contact us or the children’s aid society in your area.

Learn more about protection services for 16 and 17-Year-Olds and youth serving agencies.

Background About this Program

In 2018, the age of protection in Ontario was raised from 16 to 18. As a result, 16 and 17-year-olds are now eligible for the full range of child protection services, including the option of a voluntary youth services agreement if the youth is in need of protection and an out-of-home placement is required.

For more information, click here.