B.C. honours children and youth in care

Notice. Listen. Respect. Stand with B.C. children and youth in care.
It's a powerful slogan written by a group of young people two years ago to help
create a week that celebrates children and youth in care.

June 2-8, 2013, is the third annual B.C. Child and Youth in Care Week to
acknowledge and celebrate children and youth in care and to help combat negative
stereotypes and social stigmas.

This week shines a positive spotlight on children and youth in government care
around the province – from small, rural communities to large, urban cities. The
week celebrates the individuality, accomplishments and talents of these young
people and it encourages community members from all walks of life to stand in
solidarity with young people in care.

A variety of private community events will be held throughout the province
during the week. A provincial celebration event will be held with children,
youth and caregivers, as well as ministry and partner organization
representatives this week in Vancouver. The event will be capped off with an
awards ceremony to honour 12 children and youth in and from care for their
strength, leadership and inspiration to others.

The Ministry of Children and Family Development has worked with several key
partners to promote the week and to plan the provincial event: the Federation of
B.C. Youth in Care Networks, the Federation of Aboriginal Foster Parents, the
B.C. Federation of Foster Parent Associations, the Adoptive Families Association
of B.C. and the Public Guardian and Trustee of B.C. – as well as the children
and youth themselves.

Quick Facts:

* Approximately 8,200 children and youth are in government care in B.C.
* It was a youth-driven idea to create B.C. Child and Youth in Care Week, which
was first proclaimed in 2011, making B.C. the only province in Canada to
celebrate such a week.
* The ministry works closely with the Federation of B.C. Youth in Care Networks,
who provide support, transition and advocacy services to youth in – and from –
care, and youth receiving ministry services.