Children and Family Development Minister Stephanie Cadieux issued the following statement on the advisory council that was appointed to support the development of a multi-year plan to improve child welfare in British Columbia:

This year, more than 640,000 B.C. kids are looking forward to their summer break.

Enhancements to a youth-driven website, more funding for post-secondary education and more funding for programs that help with life skills/employability – these are in the spotlight during B.C. Child and Youth in Care Week as government focuses on giving young people from care a leg up in their transition to adulthood and independence.

“My past does not define me. It never has, and it never will.”

The Ministry of Children and Family Development’s latest report on the placement of children and youth in hotels shows that policy and practice directives are being followed. Due to enhanced reporting and monitoring, the report includes more detailed information than ever before on the reasons for each hotel placement.

To further support the positive mental health and well-being of British Columbia children, youth and families, the Province is investing $850,000 in the F.O.R.C.E Society for Kids’ Mental Health.

A group of independent advisors will work with government to develop a multi-year plan to strengthen B.C.’s child welfare system, starting with more staff, more training and greater transparency and accountability in ministry decision-making and other areas.

Young people who are in the care of the Ministry of Children and Family Development and have complex emotional, mental health, developmental and/or behavioural challenges can now get help through two new community resources in Vernon and Prince George.

Energetic, devoted, creative and compassionate are just a few words used to describe the outstanding child-care providers being honoured with 2016 Child Care Awards of Excellence as part of Child Care Month and Child Care Appreciation Day on May 19.

To help celebrate Child Care Month in May, the Province is providing $500,000 to the Early Childhood Educators of BC to continue a bursary fund for students enrolled in early childhood education programs.