Together We Thrive
Empowering children, youth, and families across Durham Region through education, opportunity, and community support.
About the Foundation
Durham Children’s Aid Foundation (DCAF) is a registered charity dedicated to improving the lives of children, youth, and families connected to child welfare in Durham Region. We partner with Durham Children’s Aid Society to raise funds and deliver high-impact programs that provide stability, opportunity, and hope.
We are not a child protection agency, we are the fundraising and community engagement partner supporting vulnerable families through compassion, innovation, and dignity of choice.
What We Fund
Basic & Emergency Support Fund
Helping families meet urgent needs with dignity — food, clothing, school supplies, transportation, and start-up supports for kinship and foster families.
Education & Empowerment Fund
Investing in long-term success through bursaries, tutoring, camps, mentorship, and programs that build leadership and independence.
Trauma-Informed Care & Safety Fund
Providing counselling, safe housing, and trauma-informed supports for children, youth, and caregivers impacted by violence or exploitation.
Our Impact
Thanks to our donors, volunteers, and community partners, DCAF continues to make a measurable difference in the lives of children and youth each year.
1,587
Children and families supported
195
Children sent to camp
33
Bursaries awarded
$74K+
In emergency aid distributed
Holiday Hope
Holiday Hope began with Sharon Clark’s legacy of compassion and community. Today, it continues through our reimagined Holiday Hope Pop-Up Shop — a choice-based model allowing families to select gifts, essentials, and gift cards that meet their unique needs.
Each year, more than 800 children and youth receive holiday gifts and support that extend well beyond the season.
Stories of Hope
“That gift didn’t just make my Christmas — it reminded me I wasn’t invisible.”
— Youth, age 16
Ways to Give
Donate Now
Make an immediate difference for children, youth, and families across Durham Region.
$50 provides warm clothing or a toy bundle for a child.
Become a Monthly Donor
Provide steady support that ensures help is there when families need it most.
$25/month sustains essential programs all year long.
Corporate & Community Partnerships
Engage your business or group in creating lasting community impact.
Sponsorships build hope for hundreds of local families.
Together, we make the futures brighter.
