About Us

Durham Children’s Aid Foundation (DCAF)

At Durham Children’s Aid Foundation (DCAF), we believe that every child and youth deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances. As the charitable partner of Durham Children’s Aid Society, we are dedicated to empowering children, youth, and families by providing life-changing opportunities and essential support.

Who We Are

DCAF is Durham Region’s only charity focused on supporting children and youth involved with the child welfare system. We work in partnership with Durham CAS to ensure that children and families facing adversity have access to education, enrichment programs, basic necessities, and a strong support system.

What We Do

Through the generosity of our donors, partners, and community, we raise and deliver high-impact programs that help break the cycle of poverty and adversity. Our initiatives provide:

Basic Needs & Emergency Support – Ensuring children have food, clothing, and essential resources.

Education & Mentorship – Scholarships, bursaries, and mentoring opportunities that help youth achieve their dreams.

Holiday & Seasonal Programs – Including Holiday Hope, our flagship initiative that provides gifts and essentials to families in need.

Enrichment & Development – Access to extracurricular activities, summer camps, and other experiences that build confidence and skills.

Why It Matters

Many of the children and youth we support face barriers beyond their control. With your help, we can change the trajectory of their lives—offering them stability, opportunity, and hope for a brighter future.

Join us in making a difference. Together, we thrive.