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Children’s Special Allowance Settlement

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

The Children’s Special Allowance Settlement is a $445,200,000 court-approved settlement for people who were provincially funded children in the care of a Child and Family Services (CFS) agency in Manitoba between January 1, 2005 and March 31, 2019.

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Some people who may be eligible claimants may not receive mail, may have moved, or may not know about this settlement. You may be able to assist us in getting the “word out” to potential claimants. Our goal is to ensure all claimants get their share of the settlement money.

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How can you help?

If you know someone who may have been in foster care in Manitoba during the years 2005 to 2019, please consider letting them know about this settlement. This could include:

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  • A former foster child

  • A family member

  • A friend or someone you are still in contact with

 

You do not need to explain the settlement or encourage them to apply. Our goal is for you to simply share this information with potential claimants.

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Important deadline

People who want to apply must submit a claim by January 5, 2027.  Claims received after this date may not be accepted.

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The Claim Registration Form can be submitted online, by email, regular mail, or fax.

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What to do next

If you think you may be eligible, or if you are helping someone who may be eligible, please contact the Claims Administrator to learn more or get help applying. There is no cost to apply.

 

Steps to Submit a Claim

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  • Fill out the Claim Registration Form: Provide all necessary information about yourself and your time in care (or the Claimant you are representing).  

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  • Complete one Claim Registration Form for each person who is a current or former Child-in-Care.

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  • Attach required documents: Include your government-issued ID and any other required documents.

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  • Choose your preferred payment method: Decide how you want to receive your potential compensation, if assessed as eligible.

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  • Submit your form: Make sure to submit your form by the January 5, 2027 deadline.​

FREQUENTLY  ASKED QUESTIONS 

How do I apply?

You can apply online, by phone, mail or in person. You do not need internet or a computer.If you want, we can mail you an application and include prepaid return postage.

 

Is there a deadline to apply?

Yes. Claims must be submitted by January 5, 2027. Claims received after this date may not be accepted.

 

Is there a fee to apply? Do I need a lawyer?

Applying is free, and you do not need a lawyer.

 

Will this impact my Employment and Income Assistance (EIA)?

No. Applying for this settlement will not affect your EIA eligibility or other Manitoba services or benefits. If you have questions about your situation, please contact us.

 

What if I don’t have ID or a permanent address?

That’s okay. To get started, we only need your full name and date of birth. We understand that many people do not have ID or a permanent address.

 

What if I don’t remember when I was in care or which agency was involved?

That’s okay. You do not need to remember exact dates or agency names. We can assist with obtaining that information.

 

How do I know if I was a “provincially funded” child in care in Manitoba?

A provincially funded child in care is generally someone whose family did not live on a Reserve at the time they were taken into CFS care.

 

Who can submit a Claims Registration Form?

A claim can be submitted by:

  • You, if you are 18 years or older

  • A guardian of a former child-in-care who turns 18 after the deadline

  • A representative of a former child-in-care who is over 18•The administrator of the estate of a former child-in-care who has died

  • CFS agencies, for current children-in-care

 

Who is compensation paid to?

  • If you are eligible, compensation can only be paid in your name.

  • If the former child-in-care has died, compensation is paid to their estate.

  • If you are under 18, your compensation will be held in trust until your 18th birthday.

 

What if I don’t want all of my compensation at once?

If you are 18 or older, you can choose to have your compensation held in trust for up to three years. You can decide on a payment schedule that feels right for you.

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SAFE ROOTS 
PAYMENT PLAN 

A safer, steadier way to receive your settlement money

What is the Strong Roots Plan?
The Strong Roots - Safe Payments Plan helps keep your settlement money protected. Instead of receiving all your money at once, you get steady monthly payments you can count on. It’s always your money, and you choose how to use it.

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Why Many People Choose the Strong Roots Plan

  • Helps keep you safe

  • Protects you from pressure

  • Monthly money you can count on

  • Reduces the risk of theft or loss

  • Your money earns interest, on average the same as a GIC.

 

Strong Roots Plan vs. Lump Sum


Strong Roots Plan: You receive monthly payments (dependent on your settlement amount, for example,
$800 a month for up to three years).


Lump Sum: You receive all your money at once. This may be unsafe for you and overwhelming.
 

What the Plan Does Not Do

  • Does not take away your rights

  • Does not control your life

  • Does not judge you


Common Questions

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​Do I still get ALL my money?

Yes. You receive monthly payments until your total settlement is fully paid.


Do I need a bank account?

Yes. we can help you set one up.


Can other people get my Strong Roots money?

No. The part of your settlement that has not been paid out yet is kept safe. Only you can receive it.
What if I move? Your payments can follow you.


Will this affect my other benefits?

The Province of Manitoba has stated your class action settlement
amount will not affect your other provincial benefits received. We can talk about your situation.


Can I change the payment option?

Yes, anytime.​

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How to Choose the Strong Roots Plan
Talk to your Claimant Coordinator. Ask questions. Bring someone for support if you want. You do not need
to decide today - we are here to help you choose what is best for your life.

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