Who handles youth & young people?
Youth & Young People
Youth services involve all levels. Federal provides child benefits and youth employment programs, provinces handle education and child welfare, and municipalities run local recreation and youth centres.
⚠️ Shared Jurisdiction: This area involves multiple levels of government. The information below shows the primary responsibility at each level, but overlap is common. When in doubt, start with the level most directly related to your issue.
Federal
Parliament of Canada
- ● Canada Child Benefit
- ● Canada Summer Jobs program
- ● Youth Criminal Justice Act
- ● Youth employment strategy
- ● Canada Summer Jobs program
- ● Youth mental health initiatives
💡 Example: Apply for Canada Summer Jobs, or contact your MP about federal youth programs.
Provincial
Provincial Legislature
- ● Provincial education system
- ● Child and youth protection services
- ● Youth justice services
- ● Provincial youth employment programs
- ● Youth employment and training programs
- ● Youth justice and protection services
💡 Example: Contact your provincial child and youth services, or your MPP/MLA about youth programs.
Municipal
City / Town Hall
- ● Youth centres and programs
- ● Recreation and sports programs
- ● Summer camps and after-school programs
- ● Youth advisory councils
💡 Example: Contact your local recreation department, or your councillor about youth programs.
Quick Reference — Who to Contact
🏛️ Federal
Your Member of Parliament (MP)
🏢 Provincial
Your MPP, MLA, or MNA
🏘️ Municipal
Your City Councillor
How to Get Involved in Youth Issues
Youth programs and services shape the future of every community. You can advocate for better youth opportunities, mental health support, and recreation programs by taking these steps:
- ● Contact your MP about federal youth programs, Canada Summer Jobs, or youth mental health initiatives
- ● Reach out to your provincial MLA/MPP about youth employment, education, or justice programs
- ● Attend municipal council meetings to discuss local youth programs, recreation centres, or community activities
- ● Join youth advocacy organizations like the Canadian Centre for Child Protection or local youth councils
Ready to Take Action?
Use MyCivicVoice to find your representatives and draft a letter about the issues that matter to you.
Take Action →Frequently Asked Questions
Programs include the Canada Summer Jobs program, Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, the Canada Student Loans Program, and provincial youth employment initiatives.
CSJ provides wage subsidies to employers who hire youth aged 15-30 for summer jobs in the community sector. It supports jobs in culture, environment, health, and social services.
Apply through your provincial student financial aid agency or online through the Canada Student Loans Program. You will need your SIN, proof of enrollment, and financial information.
Some provinces offer youth allowances or basic income programs for young people. Federal programs include the Canada Learning Bond for low-income families.
Join youth political organizations, volunteer for campaigns, participate in student government, attend town halls, and contact your elected representatives about issues that matter to you.