Now that Canada Post is back to work, the Ministry of Social Development is mailing out the cheques it held back from distribution during the postal disruption.

June 27 is Canadian Multiculturalism Day, a wonderful opportunity to celebrate British Columbia's diverse people and communities.

If you know someone who is a champion for multiculturalism in their community, nominate them for a 2011 Provincial Nesika Award. Nominations are now open for the awards, which recognize individuals, organizations and businesses that make outstanding contributions to promoting cultural diversity and Aboriginal heritage in B.C.

In response to the ongoing Canada Post labour situation, the Province is implementing an alternate distribution plan for June income-assistance payments.

The Province is closely monitoring the Canada Post labour situation to ensure that British Columbians who are on income assistance will receive their June cheques on time.

The Ministry of Social Development is mailing income assistance cheques one week early this month, in case Canada Post experiences a work disruption.

The Province has changed its shelter allowance rules for income assistance to provide extra support to families trying to heal and change for the better.

The Province is creating new employment centres which will make it easier to help people find work and provide stability for their families.