Cash Cows: Indigenous Youth Allegedly Monetized in Group Homes

A comprehensive investigation by Global News has uncovered troubling allegations of exploitation within privately run group homes, where Indigenous youth from northern Ontario are allegedly treated as “cash cows” to generate profit. This year-long probe sheds light on the distressing experiences faced by vulnerable Indigenous youth, reminiscent of the abuses endured during the residential schools era.

In eastern Ontario, shocking revelations emerge as the owner of a group home allegedly refers to First Nations children from northern Ontario as his “bread and butter.” Former employees from various privately operated group homes recount disturbing accounts where Indigenous youth are dehumanized and monetized, referred to as “cash cows” or “money-makers” by staff and management.

Global News’ investigation exposes a pattern of exploitation targeting Indigenous youth, who are relocated far from their communities to group homes in southern Ontario. Despite promises of care and support, these youths are reportedly subjected to abuse, including violent restraint and punishment for speaking their native languages.

The data obtained by Global News through leaked internal documents and freedom of information requests unveils alarming practices within the child welfare system:

For-profit group home companies allegedly prioritize northern Indigenous youth as a lucrative revenue stream.

Indigenous children’s aid societies in the north are charged significantly higher daily fees compared to non-Indigenous agencies for the care of these youth.

Despite assurances of cultural services, many Indigenous youths receive inadequate support, further exacerbating their trauma.

Former workers liken these group homes to prisons, where physical force is frequently used to control the children.

The disparity in funding becomes evident through an analysis of spending data by children’s aid societies across Ontario. Northern Indigenous agencies reportedly pay an average of $410 per day to place children in private group homes, significantly higher than the average rate paid by non-Indigenous agencies.