Today we remember the young women who needlessly lost their lives in a shocking act of violence at l'École Polytechnique de Montréal on Dec. 6, 1989.

Violence in the home has a devastating impact on too many women, children and families throughout B.C.

Caring, committed, compassionate - these are just some of the words that describe B.C.'s amazing foster parents and the remarkable contribution they make each and every day to our children, youth and communities.

Every year, British Columbians commemorate Autism Awareness Month as a way to recognize and honour children, youth and adults dealing with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

They serve families, children and youth, seniors, criminal offenders, trauma victims and people in need of social services.

No one wants to see a child living in poverty. It is an issue that affects all of us and belongs to all of us. We need to empower families with the means to break the poverty cycle by helping to remove barriers and creating opportunities that will bring about real change.

Adoption Awareness Month in November gives us all the opportunity to recognize and thank the many families in B.C. who have opened their hearts and adopted a child into their homes.