Finding stable housing after aging out of care in Winnipeg is one of the most urgent challenges facing young people in Manitoba's child welfare system. In 2024–25, 9,172 young people were in CFS care across the province — 91% of them First Nations, Métis, or Inuit — and roughly 625 age out every year (Manitoba Government via CBC, 2023). Without the right supports, the transition from care to independence can feel overwhelming. But it does not have to be a crisis. There are programs, agreements, and community organizations across Winnipeg and Treaty 1 Territory that exist to help young people find safe, stable housing and build the foundation for their next chapter.
What Does Aging Out of Care Mean in Manitoba?
Aging out of care means reaching the age of majority — 18 in Manitoba — while under a permanent order of the child and family services system, at which point formal care ends. For many young people, this transition happens without a family safety net, a co-signer for a lease, or savings to cover a damage deposit. The Canadian research literature has consistently shown that youth who age out of care face significantly higher rates of homelessness, unemployment, and housing instability compared to their peers.
The challenge is not a reflection of the young people themselves. It is a reflection of systems that were not designed to support a smooth transition to adulthood. That is why understanding the resources available — and accessing them early — matters so much.
Extensions of Care: Supports That Continue Beyond 18
Manitoba's Agreements with Young Adults — commonly called extensions of care — allow youth who were under a permanent order at age 18 to continue receiving financial support and services until age 21. These agreements are voluntary, and they can cover education, employment training, treatment programming, transition planning, and culturally appropriate services.
Here is what you need to know about applying:
- Who qualifies: Youth who were under a permanent order when they turned 18
- What is covered: Continued care and maintenance funding, housing support, education goals, transition services
- How to apply: Work with your case manager to develop a written plan at least three months before your 18th birthday
- Your rights: If an agency denies your agreement, they must provide written notice and explain the appeal process
Starting the conversation with your case manager early is essential. If you are approaching 18 and have not discussed an extension of care, reach out to your CFS worker or contact New Steps for guidance.
Housing Programs for Youth in Winnipeg
Winnipeg has a growing network of transitional and supportive housing programs designed specifically for young people leaving care. Each program offers different levels of support, so finding the right fit depends on where you are in your journey. Here is a comparison of some of the key options available on Treaty 1 Territory:
| Program | Who It Serves | Housing Type | Key Supports |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Steps ILP | First Nations, Métis, or Inuit youth ages 16–21 aging out of CFS | 3-phase model: Foundations → Transitional Living → Independent Living | Grocery allowance, life skills, cultural programming, Elder guidance, GED prep, a plan after 21 |
| ROOM (Futures Forward) | Youth on Agreement with Young Adults (AYA) | Long-term safe apartments | Housing stability, case management |
| Nenookaasiins | First Nations, Métis, or Inuit youth and young adults transitioning out of CFS | 18 apartments in Winnipeg | Affordable housing, wraparound supports |
| Mazoun Infinitii Pakoshayimoohk (MMF) | First Nations, Métis, or Inuit youth ages 16–25 aging out of Métis CFS care | 14-unit transitional housing | 24-hour cultural services, skills training |
This is not an exhaustive list. New programs and housing units continue to be developed across Winnipeg. For a current directory of all available services, 211 Manitoba is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by dialling 2-1-1.
How New Steps Supports the Transition to Independence
At New Steps ILP, housing is not just about a roof — it is a launchpad for independence. Our three-phase model is designed to meet young people where they are and walk alongside them as they build the skills and confidence they need to thrive on their own.
In Phase 1, groceries are provided and residents receive a weekly living allowance as a resource to practise money while participating in cultural programming, life skills training, and Learning Centre programming including GED preparation and financial literacy. In Phase 2, youth move to a monthly living allowance — a resource to practise money, not a wage — with continued food support as they take on more responsibility. By Phase 3, residents are living independently, leaving with help finding affordable housing and a real plan after 21.
Cultural programming runs through every phase. Sharing circles, Elder guidance, ceremonies, and land-based activities are not extras — they are core to the model. Research published in 2023 confirms that culturally grounded programs lead to significant increases in cultural identity strength among urban First Nations, Métis, or Inuit adolescents, which in turn supports better housing stability and wellness outcomes.
Steps You Can Take Today
Whether you are a young person preparing to leave care, a professional supporting someone through the transition, or a community member who wants to help, here are concrete next steps:
If You Are a Young Person
- Talk to your case manager about an Agreement with Young Adults — ideally three or more months before you turn 18
- Visit our eligibility page to see if New Steps is the right fit for you
- Call 211 Manitoba (dial 2-1-1) anytime for help finding housing and supports
- Know your rights — you deserve written notice if an extension of care is denied, and you can appeal
If You Are a Professional
- Start transition planning early — ideally by age 16
- Learn about making a referral to New Steps ILP
- Connect youth with cultural programming and community resources alongside housing supports
If You Want to Get Involved
- Explore ways to support New Steps and the young people we serve
- Advocate for stronger transition supports in your community and with elected representatives
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when you age out of care in Manitoba?
When a young person under a permanent order turns 18 in Manitoba, their formal CFS care ends. However, they may be eligible for an Agreement with Young Adults (extension of care) that provides continued financial support and services until age 21. Without this agreement, youth must secure their own housing, income, and supports — which is why early planning and connection to transitional programs like New Steps ILP is so important.
How many youth age out of care in Manitoba each year?
Approximately 625 young people age out of the child welfare system in Manitoba each year (Manitoba Government via CBC, 2023). As of 2024–25, there were 9,172 youth in CFS care across the province, and 91% of them are First Nations, Métis, or Inuit. The number of children in care rose for the first time since 2016–17, increasing by nearly 3% from the previous year.
What housing is available for youth leaving care in Winnipeg?
Winnipeg has several transitional housing programs for youth leaving care, including New Steps ILP (a culturally grounded three-phase model for First Nations, Métis, or Inuit youth ages 16–21), ROOM transitional housing through Futures Forward, Nenookaasiins (18 apartments for First Nations, Métis, or Inuit youth), and housing through the Manitoba Métis Federation. Each program offers different levels of support, and 211 Manitoba (dial 2-1-1) can help connect you with the right option.
How do I apply for an extension of care in Manitoba?
To apply for an Agreement with Young Adults, work with your CFS case manager to develop a written transition plan at least three months before your 18th birthday. The plan should outline your goals for education, housing, employment, or other supports. Your agency will submit the request to the relevant authority for approval. If you are denied, you have the right to a written explanation and an appeal.
Is New Steps ILP only for First Nations, Métis, or Inuit youth?
New Steps ILP primarily serves First Nations, Métis, or Inuit youth ages 16–21 who are aging out of the child and family services system. Our programming is culturally grounded in First Nations and Métis traditions, values, and ways of knowing. To learn more about eligibility and whether New Steps is the right fit, visit our eligibility page or contact us directly.
Every young person deserves a foundation to build their future on. If you or someone you know is aging out of care and needs housing support, reach out to New Steps. We are here to walk alongside you on the journey to independence.
Professionals working with youth in the child welfare system can learn more about making a referral to New Steps ILP.
