Authors: Wells, L., Litviniuc, A., & Lee, L.

Date: August 2021

Shift was invited by the Government of Alberta’s Ministry of Children’s Services to participate in a townhall meeting regarding the impact the pandemic has had on Alberta child and youth social, mental, physical, and educational well-being. In addition to participating in the townhall, Shift submitted a summary of evidence-based policy recommendations to mitigate the impacts of the pandemic on children and youth, prevent domestic and sexual violence, and improve child and youth well-being. Our recommendations focused on strengthening funding, supports, and services for Alberta parents, families, and children; working with other ministries to prioritize decolonization and reconciliation; leveraging technology and artificial intelligence to predict and prevent violence; and focusing on the prevention of sexual violence. Recommendations collected by the Ministry of Children’s Services will be delivered in a final report to the Ministers of Health, Children’s Services, and Education.