Young people throughout B.C. are taking advantage of greater opportunities to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of children in care by participating in decisions that help improve the province's child welfare system and youth services.

Minister of Children and Family Development Stephanie Cadieux released the following statement in recognition of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, Oct. 17:

Young people formerly in government care will be given a chance to help current children and youth in care through a new internship program with the Ministry of Children and Family Development.

Celebrations are always better with dancing, so to help kick off B.C. Child and Youth in Care Week, hundreds of British Columbians are expected to participate in several flash mobs throughout the province to show support for B.C.'s children and youth in government care.

Surrey has been identified as one of seven communities to participate in a pilot project where poverty reduction strategies will target the unique needs of families struggling to get out of poverty.

The Province is working collaboratively with communities to provide targeted supports and create jobs for low-income B.C. families.

Imagine young children playing outside in a natural environment, in a playground that can magically transform into what young minds dream of: a mighty sea for sailboats to navigate, an enchanted forest where creatures roam, and an outdoor theatre for the most inspired acting performances under the sun.

Notice. Listen. Respect. Stand with B.C. children and youth in care. These are powerful words, and they hold a personal meaning for thousands of children and youth in government care across the province.