If you're a young person in CFS care in Manitoba, extensions of care — officially called Agreements with Young Adults (AYA) — could be the bridge between aging out and standing on your own. With Manitoba's interim agreement standards set to expire on October 1, 2026, now is the time to understand what you're entitled to and how to advocate for yourself. Here on Treaty 1 Territory, organizations like New Steps ILP are here to help you navigate every step.
For the more than 9,000 Indigenous youth in Manitoba's care system — where First Nations children are removed from homes at 17 times the rate of non-Indigenous children — knowing your options isn't just helpful. It's essential.
What Are Extensions of Care in Manitoba?
Extensions of care in Manitoba are voluntary agreements — called Agreements with Young Adults (AYA) — that allow youth who were permanent wards to continue receiving supports from their CFS agency after they turn 18. These agreements can cover housing, financial assistance, education funding, and cultural programming, depending on what you and your agency agree on. Think of an AYA as a written plan that keeps your safety net in place while you build your independence.
Under Manitoba's CFS Standards Manual (Section 1.1.8), your agency is required to start explaining the AYA program to you when you turn 15. If no one has talked to you about this yet, that's a gap worth raising — and you have every right to ask.
Who Qualifies for Extensions of Care?
Youth who were permanent wards of a CFS agency in Manitoba are eligible to apply for an AYA. This typically includes young people between ages 18 and 21 who were in care before reaching the age of majority. Eligibility details can vary between agencies, but the core requirement is clear: if you were a permanent ward, you have the right to explore this option.
Across Canada, momentum is building for stronger post-majority supports. On March 9, 2026, the Council of Yukon First Nations received federal approval for their own youth-leaving-care supports covering ages 19 to 26 — including housing, financial help, and cultural programming. Manitoba youth deserve the same level of commitment, and understanding your rights here at home is the first step. For a broader overview of the child welfare system, check out our guide to understanding CFS in Manitoba.
What Supports Are Included?
An AYA can include a range of supports tailored to your goals and needs. While specifics depend on your agreement with your agency, here's what extensions of care in Manitoba typically cover compared to what New Steps ILP provides directly:
| Support Area | AYA (Through Your CFS Agency) | New Steps ILP (Direct Program) |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | Financial assistance for rent or supported housing placement | 3-tier housing: Assessment → Transitional → Independent, with lease transfer upon graduation |
| Financial Support | Living allowance (varies by agency) | $125/week grocery allowance, $50/week incentive (Phase 1); $500/month living allowance (Phase 2) |
| Education | May cover tuition or GED support | Learning Centre: GED prep, life skills, financial literacy |
| Cultural Programming | Depends on agency capacity | Sharing circles, Elder guidance, ceremonies, land-based activities |
| Employment | Referrals to community resources | Direct employment readiness support and job placement assistance |
Important: an AYA and a program like New Steps are not mutually exclusive. Many youth benefit from both — your AYA provides systemic support while New Steps offers hands-on, culturally grounded programming. To learn more about building financial confidence, visit our financial literacy resource for youth leaving care.
The October 2026 Deadline: Why This Matters Now
Manitoba's four interim CFS agreement standards expire on October 1, 2026. After that date, individual agencies must collaborate with Nations, communities, and rights holders to develop their own policies and procedures for agreements with young adults. This transition could mean stronger, more culturally responsive supports — but it could also mean gaps during the changeover.
The stakes are real. A Conference Board of Canada report warns that failing to invest in Indigenous youth aging out of care could cost the Canadian economy $2 to $5.5 billion over five years. That's not just a number — it reflects the unrealized potential of thousands of young people who deserve better.
The bottom line: if you're 15 or older and in care right now, start the conversation about your AYA before October 2026. Don't wait for the system to come to you.
What to Do If You're Denied an Extension of Care
If your agency denies your request for an AYA, you have the right to receive a written letter explaining the reason for the decision. This isn't optional — it's your right under Manitoba's CFS framework. Here's what to do:
- Ask for the written explanation. If you don't receive one, put your request in writing (email or letter) so there's a record.
- Connect with an advocate. Organizations like Futures Forward and the Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth can support you in appealing the decision.
- Reach out to New Steps. Even if your AYA is denied, our program can provide housing, life skills, and cultural supports. We're here regardless of your CFS status.
- Know your other options. Manitoba's Youth in Care Tuition Waiver covers full degree costs plus a living allowance at 11 participating institutions — and applications for 2026/27 are due March 31, 2026. Don't miss this deadline.
For more on your rights in the system, read our guide to your rights as a youth in care.
You Don't Have to Navigate This Alone
The system can feel overwhelming — we get it. But understanding extensions of care in Manitoba is one of the most powerful things you can do for your future. Whether you're just starting to think about aging out or you're already past 18 and wondering what's available, there are people and programs ready to walk beside you.
At New Steps, we believe every young person deserves a stable foundation and a community that has their back. Our 3-tier housing model is designed to meet you exactly where you are and support you all the way to independence.
If you or someone you know needs support navigating extensions of care or housing in Winnipeg, reach out to New Steps today. For professionals looking to make a referral, visit our referral page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age limit for extensions of care in Manitoba?
Agreements with Young Adults (AYA) in Manitoba are generally available to youth between ages 18 and 21 who were permanent wards of a CFS agency. Your agency is required to begin discussing this option with you starting at age 15.
Can I get an extension of care if I was in a voluntary placement?
AYA eligibility is primarily for youth who were permanent wards. If you were in a voluntary placement, your situation may differ — contact your CFS worker or reach out to New Steps for guidance on what options are available to you.
What happens after Manitoba's interim CFS standards expire in October 2026?
After October 1, 2026, individual CFS agencies must work with Nations, communities, and rights holders to develop their own policies for agreements with young adults. This means the process may look different depending on your agency, which is why it's important to start your AYA conversation now while the current standards still apply.
Can I receive New Steps supports and an AYA at the same time?
Yes. New Steps ILP and an AYA through your CFS agency are not mutually exclusive. Many youth benefit from both — the AYA provides systemic financial support while New Steps offers housing, cultural programming, and hands-on life skills training through our Learning Centre.
Where can I find housing help if I'm aging out of care in Winnipeg?
New Steps ILP offers a 3-tier housing program specifically designed for youth ages 16 to 21 aging out of care here on Treaty 1 Territory. Learn more in our guide to finding housing after care in Winnipeg or contact us directly.
