The Government of British Columbia and BC Ferries are committing to a seasonal direct ferry service between Port Hardy and Bella Coola to support Aboriginal tourism and the mid-coast economy.

Thompson Rivers University (TRU) is providing Aboriginal students a range of programs and services that will support their learning journey. This will include an Aboriginal Awareness Week during March 2017 that will showcase Aboriginal culture and knowledge, Elders-in-residence, cultural learning and mentoring.

Capilano University (Cap U) will provide Aboriginal students with tangible skills for teaching language in communities through a language and culture program. Vancouver Community College (VCC) will provide the gateway to careers program to help Aboriginal students develop, set and reach educational and career goals.

The world is changing and parents expect their kids to be taught the skills they need to succeed in that changing world.

Students in B.C. have even more to look forward to this back-to-school season as free open textbooks hit up to $2 million in overall student savings.

As part of the Province’s commitment to cut red tape and improve access to important programs and services, the Ministry of Small Business and Red Tape Reduction announced the release of the Aboriginal Small Business Resource handout. This one-stop reference handout is tailored specifically to Aboriginal entrepreneurs, and includes information on how to access the range of services and supports available to Aboriginal small-business owners.

The Province and the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres (BCAAFC) have been working together on two labour market projects aimed at helping more youth join British Columbia’s workforce and recruiting others who want to work in Aboriginal non-profit organizations.

In 2004, the Government of British Columbia proclaimed Sept. 3 Merchant Navy Veterans Day. On this day each year, Canadians honour the contribution, courage and sacrifice of the men and women who served in Canada’s Merchant Navy.

Animals needing a home in Prince George will benefit from a Crown land lease of 1.18 hectares beside Exhibition Park to the North Cariboo District Branch of the BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BC SPCA).