An Ottawa couple has publicly criticized the Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa (CASO) for allegedly discriminating against them in their application to become foster parents, attributing their rejection to the agency’s concerns about their infertility issues.
Alana and Alec Jenkin initially applied to foster a child in September 2021, eager to provide a loving home through CASO. Despite being upfront about their infertility struggles and ongoing treatments, the Jenkins were shocked to learn, nearly ten months later, that their application was rejected.
According to Alana Jenkin, the rejection was justified by CASO’s concern that their fertility treatments indicated emotional instability, making them unsuitable to provide a stable environment for a foster child. “It felt as though the universe was telling us we weren’t meant to have children, and now even the government agrees,” said Alana. “It’s a feeling that we can’t shake.”
The Jenkins were advised to reapply in six to twelve months, but the emotional toll of their application process, compounded by their ongoing fertility issues, has made them reluctant to pursue it again. “We were left feeling empty, confused, and demoralized,” Alec Jenkin shared. “If our situation is deemed too challenging, who is truly eligible?”
Initially, the couple felt confident in their application due to their stable employment with the federal government and their openness to fostering children of all backgrounds. They had attended a mandatory information session where examples of successful foster families were presented, including a couple with two newborns despite recent childbirth.
The Jenkins question the fairness of CASO’s policies, arguing that if their infertility struggles are a disqualifying factor, it seems inconsistent with the agency’s acceptance of other family circumstances. “It seems that if you’re having trouble conceiving, you’re not deemed fit, but others who already have children are,” Alana Jenkin observed.
CASO responded by emphasizing the complexity of matching children with appropriate foster families and the necessity of ensuring that all foster parents can meet the diverse needs of the children. The agency acknowledged the Jenkins’ concerns but maintained that rigorous criteria are essential for child safety and well-being.
Alan Leschied, a psychologist and professor emeritus at Western University, criticized CASO’s decision, suggesting that it was an overreach if infertility alone was the basis for rejection. “Many successful foster parents have their own children through various means, and these families often thrive,” Leschied noted.
As of June 26, CASO reported a need for foster families for 70 children, including 15 urgent cases. Despite this demand, the agency insists that its strict standards are crucial for the safety and suitability of foster placements.
The Jenkins’ four-year journey through fertility treatments has been fraught with challenges, including recent unsuccessful attempts. “Each round of treatment brings uncertainty, and the emotional and physical toll is significant,” Alec Jenkin said. “We wonder if the effort is worth it.”
Although the couple remains hopeful about eventually becoming parents, they feel disheartened by the implications that their path to fostering may be blocked by their ongoing treatments. “Being told we are unstable due to our fertility issues makes it feel like our only option is to conceive naturally,” Alana Jenkin added.
The Jenkins remain committed to building a family, in whatever form that may take, and believe their experience has only strengthened their bond. CASO has not responded to multiple interview requests from CBC prior to a recent strike by its employees.
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