CIJA has worked closely with organizations in other ethno-cultural communities to evaluate the added value of services delivered by our niche service providers, such as Jewish Family and Child in Toronto. The results demonstrate that ethno-specific social service agencies, which operate on a smaller scale than mainstream providers, are able to provide care more appropriately for clients, resulting in improved measurable outcomes and better access for the most vulnerable in their respective communities.

There are many areas included under the social services umbrella with a federal component, including immigrant settlement, employment assistance and seniors care. Many Jewish community social service agencies receive federal funding for their important work in these and other crucial areas.

The 2005 report “Seniors on the Margins,” produced by the federally mandated National Advisory Council on Aging, specifically examined the importance of culturally relevant care for seniors. The report recommended greater representation and inclusion of ethno-cultural communities in national planning, including policy and program development.

These conclusions are applicable across the broad range of social service activities under federal jurisdiction. Ensuring input from ethno-cultural social service agencies in the early stages of federal planning is crucial for maximizing the impact of their work and ensuring greater coordination with larger mainstream providers.

The most effective way to de- liver social services to Jewish Canadians is through Jewish social service agencies, which have superior access and better outcomes than other providers. Providing a key role for ethno-cultural social service agencies in federal planning and delivery of social services is crucial for maximizing positive outcomes.