The awards, hosted by Minister of Children and Family Development Mary McNeil and MLA for Vancouver-Quilchena Colin Hansen, are held during the month of May to celebrate Child Care Month in B.C. The event featured the Dorothy Lam Children's Centre choir, followed by an award ceremony and luncheon to honour the recipients.
The Child Care Awards of Excellence recognize outstanding contributions made by child-care professionals, innovative individuals, organizations and local governments who support child-care initiatives in their communities. Award recipients were nominated by peers, parents and local governments and chosen by a selection committee made up of individuals knowledgeable in the child-care field and ministry representatives.
The Child Care Legacy Awards recognize child-care facilities which have been serving children and families for 40 years or more.
Quotes:
Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development -
"B.C.'s child-care and early learning professionals are a dedicated, caring group - and they bring such energy and enthusiasm to their jobs. The Child Care Awards of Excellence and Legacy Awards celebrate extraordinary contributions to children and families, and I would like to personally congratulate all of the recipients!"
Colin Hansen, MLA for Vancouver-Quilchena -
"Today's award recipients have demonstrated a tremendous commitment to young children and to child care and early learning in this province. They absolutely deserve this special recognition for their dedication and outstanding service to families."
Sandra Menzer, executive director, Vancouver Society of Children's Centres -
"Congratulations and thank you to the child-care providers of B.C.! The passion and commitment you demonstrate each day is amazing. Your skilled work, alongside families, provides children the experiences and quality learning opportunities that provide the foundation for their future success."
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
For more information on the 2012 B.C. Child Care Awards of Excellence and Child Care Legacy Awards, go to: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/childcare/awards/index.htm
A backgrounder follows.
Contact:
Shae Greenfield
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639
250 508-8403 (cell)
BACKGROUNDER
And the winners are...
Child Care Awards of Excellence:
Ten child-care providers, organizations and municipalities have been awarded 2012 Child Care Awards of Excellence for their outstanding work on behalf of B.C. children and families.
General (four awards): Regional awards for licensed early childhood educators (ECEs) or licensed family child-care providers.
Aboriginal (two awards): One award for an ECE of Aboriginal descent working in a licensed child-care setting and one award for an Aboriginal organization offering care to Aboriginal children.
Innovation (two awards): One award for an individual and one for a facility or organization demonstrating innovation in child-care programming.
Local Government (two awards): Two awards honour local governments that have demonstrated leadership in the development of initiatives, projects or programs that support the delivery of high-quality child care.
Child Care Legacy Awards:
Fifteen child-care facilities have received Child Care Legacy Awards for 40 years of service.
Contact:
Shae Greenfield
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639
250 508-8403 (cell)
Today has been declared Child and Youth Mental Health Day in B.C. in order to raise the importance of mental health in healthy child development and the need to provide accessible and effective support and care for those children and youth experiencing mental health challenges and their families.
Government is working with community partners to improve supports for children and youth and their families as part of the implementation of Healthy Minds, Healthy People - A 10-Year Plan to Address Mental Health and Substance Use in B.C.
The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Children and Family Development are co-chairing a task force with The F.O.R.C.E. - Families Organized for Recognition and Care Equality - Society for Kids' Mental Health, which is leading development on a family mental health framework.
Government has provided funding for development of the framework, which identifies the mental health promotion needs of families affected by mental health challenges, and outlines potential strategies to address those needs and improve the mental health and wellbeing of all family members.
The framework will be officially unveiled by The F.O.R.C.E. at an international mental health conference tonight in Vancouver.
A variety of national and international clinicians, physicians, researchers, policy makers and front-line workers are attending the conference (May 6-8) to help gain a better understanding of the mental health needs of young people and their families when a family member is experiencing mental health challenges, and how to better support them.
Quotes:
Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development -
"Collaboration among a wide range of partners, representing all sectors of society, is a key part in our efforts to improve outcomes for children, youth and families experiencing mental health challenges. Through our work with The F.O.R.C.E., we're looking at what is best for families as a whole, as well as supporting individual family members struggling with a mental disorder."
Keli Anderson, executive director, The F.O.R.C.E. Society for Kids' Mental Health -
"The F.O.R.C.E. has led Child and Youth Mental Health Day since 2007 when it was first launched in B.C. The Ministry of Children and Family Development has supported the day each year and this year we've appreciated their participation in the creation of a family mental health framework being unveiled at the Child and Youth Mental Health Matters Conference on May 7."
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
For more detailed information on Child and Youth Mental Health programs and services in the province, go to: http://www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/mental_health/
Read Healthy Minds, Healthy People, B.C.'s mental health plan released in fall 2010: www.health.gov.bc.ca/library/publications/year/2010/healthy_minds_healthy_people.pdf
Learn more about the Child and Youth Mental Health Matters Conference: http://www.interprofessional.ubc.ca/CYMHM/
The F.O.R.C.E. Society for Kids' Mental Health: http://www.forcesociety.com/
Contact:
Shae Greenfield
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639
The old facility, which had been operating out of a house on the same lot, offered four beds for at-risk youth between the ages of 14 and 19. The newly opened facility is able to provide eight beds, two full washrooms, a bigger kitchen space with brand new amenities and a large patio. In addition, the new facility is wheelchair accessible.
The safe house provides short-term protective accommodation on an emergency basis to youth who want to leave the streets or other unsafe situations. Youth have a safe place to sleep at night and supportive staff members are there to help connect youth to services to meet their longer term needs.
MCFD invested $375,000 in capital funding (2010-11 funding) for the $750,000 project. The Vancouver Island Health Authority provided $100,000 and the balance of the construction costs were financed by Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Friendship Society. The City of Nanaimo waived development fees of $16,500.
MCFD also provides $325,000 in annual operational funding for the safe house, with a new three-year funding contract signed this year.
Access to the service is either by self-referral or by referral from the ministry. The stay can be anywhere from an overnight to up to two weeks, based on the individual's circumstances and need.
The groundbreaking was celebrated in June 2011 by all partners. Construction started in September 2011 and was completed in March 2012.
Quotes:
Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development -
"When youth are on the street, or in other at-risk situations, we need to work together as a caring society and do everything we can to take them out of that situation, offer them a safe and supportive place to go and receive the help they need."
"We are honoured to support this important and worthwhile project, which will provide a safe, caring environment for at-risk youth on Vancouver Island for years to come."
Ron Cantelon, MLA for Parksville-Qualicum -
"Our government remains committed to helping to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable youth in communities across B.C."
"The existing youth safe house already offered excellent assistance to teenagers in this community, and now with double the capacity in a brand new facility, it can provide even more help to those in need."
Mayor John Ruttan, City of Nanaimo -
"The City of Nanaimo is pleased to be a part of such an important capital project, which will make it possible for more local youth to get the help and resources they need when they are struggling with homelessness or other issues."
"This youth safe house provides a helping hand and a compassionate response which is so important in assisting young people to move forward into a happier, healthier space, and regain hope and strength."
Grace Elliott Nielsen, executive director, Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Friendship Society -
"Investing in our youth ensures a healthy future for all. I want to thank the Ministry of Children and Family Development, Vancouver Island Health Authority and the City of Nanaimo for their continued support."
Allison Cutler, executive director, Population and Community Health, Vancouver Island Health Authority -
"We are very happy to work in partnership with the B.C. government and Tillicum Lelum on this extremely valuable capital project, which will help boost the safety, health and well-being of at-risk youth on Vancouver Island, at a time when they need it the most."
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
If you want to know more about youth programs and services offered through MCFD, please go to: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/for_youth.htm
To learn more about Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Friendship Society go to: www.tillicumlelum.ca/
Contact:
Shae Greenfield
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639
250 508-8403 (cell)
This funding will support eight new full-time staff members to ensure co-ordination and accountability across government programs and services in all B.C. communities.
The Provincial Office of Domestic Violence was announced on March 1, 2012, and became operational on March 26, 2012. The office will be the permanent lead for government on strengthening the services and supports available for children and families affected by domestic violence.
In collaboration with the ministries of Children and Family Development, Health, Social Development, Education, Justice, and Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, the office has begun work to develop an action plan that will respond to the recommendations made by the Representative for Children and Youth in her report on the tragic deaths of Kaitlynne, Max and Cordon Schoenborn. The action plan will be presented to the Representative by July 31, 2012 and implemented immediately thereafter. The office will monitor, evaluate and report out on progress.
In addition to reviewing the policies, programs and services currently in place to identify areas for improvement, the Provincial Office of Domestic Violence is in the process of engaging stakeholders whose feedback will help the office build a comprehensive provincial plan for domestic violence. These collaborations represent the thorough analysis being done to find and address the gaps in how domestic violence is recognized and responded to in B.C.
The comprehensive provincial plan will continue to strengthen the response to domestic violence across government and with community stakeholders. The plan will be ready for full implementation in 2013.
Quotes:
Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development -
"Our government is serious about taking action and providing sustained leadership on the issue of domestic violence, which is why we have worked aggressively to put the Provincial Office of Domestic Violence in place and ensure it has the funding to be fully operational."
Shirley Bond, Minister of Justice and Attorney General -
"The Province commits more than $40 million a year for prevention and intervention services and programs for domestic violence. It is crucial that we continue to support public awareness and prevention strategies on this important issue in communities throughout the province."
Contact:
Shae Greenfield
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639
250 508-8403 (cell)
B.C. will celebrate Child Care Month in many ways. On May 11, the annual Child Care Awards of Excellence - honouring child-care professionals, organizations and local governments who have demonstrated outstanding service to children and families - will be held in Vancouver.
On May 17, B.C. will celebrate Child Care Provider Appreciation Day, which acknowledges the valuable service child-care providers deliver - and the significant contributions they make to children's development - through local appreciation events.
Every day, child-care providers are helping children climb on jungle gyms, introducing the joy of music through songs and reading children's stories that pique young imaginations. Child-care providers offer babies, toddlers and children safe, high-quality care environments where they can learn through play.
Aboriginal child-care centres provide cultural programming - such as singing, drumming and language-learning opportunities - to help connect Aboriginal children to their cultural roots.
The child-care and early learning system is actively supporting parents of young children to work or go to school, providing more than 100,000 licensed child-care spaces throughout the province. Parents can decide from a range of child-care options that meet their needs, including group child care (centre based), family child care (based in a family home), preschool, before- and after-school care and care in their own home.
B.C.'s network of child-care and early learning supports also provides thousands of jobs, currently employing more than 12,000 licensed early childhood educators and nearly 5,000 early childhood educator assistants.
British Columbia has 34 post-secondary training institutes offering early childhood education programs.
Quotes:
Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development -
"Many families depend on child care so that they can pursue career and education opportunities, knowing their children are safe and well-cared-for."
"During Child Care Month - and throughout the year - we thank the child-care community for providing young children with a wonderful and healthy early learning environment where they are encouraged and inspired to grow, learn, socialize with other children and have fun."
Colleen Kensit, operator of Peter Pan Preschool and Daycare in Victoria -
"I am very fortunate to have such a fulfilling job, where I can engage with children and see their smiling faces every day. My favourite part of the day is interacting with the children, watching their creativity and imaginations grow."
"Child Care Month is terrific because it recognizes and values our profession and all of the hard work we do. Many professions are recognized for a day, but it's nice to be recognized for an entire month!"
Wayne Robertson, chair of Provincial Child Care Council -
"Child-care providers across the province provide such a valuable service to children and families, and often are so cherished that they become an extension of the family. I am pleased to be part of the celebrations during Child Care Month to recognize these outstanding individuals and the significant work they do year-round."
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
If you are a parent and you want to find available child care in your neighbourhood or you'd like more information on the child-care subsidy program, go to: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/childcare/parents.htm
If you are a child-care operator and would like more information on funding and services offered through the government, go to: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/childcare/providers.htm
Contact:
Shae Greenfield
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639
250 508-8403 (cell)
Minister of Children and Family Development
April 26, 2012
VICTORIA - 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).
Now, as we approach the end of the month, it is a good time to reflect on the outpouring of support we have seen this year to find better ways to help those with ASD.
On April 1, the Canucks Autism Network hosted the annual Autism Awareness Walk in Vancouver. I was heartened to join individuals, families and community members on the walk, to read the proclamation and to participate in a special lighting of the Olympic cauldron - all to help raise awareness of ASD.
Then on April 2, B.C. celebrated World Autism Awareness Day by participating in the unique global movement, Light It Up Blue, where iconic landmarks around the world are bathed in blue light to show each community's support and solidarity on this issue. This year, BC Place, the YVR Tower and Rogers Arena were all glowing blue to demonstrate B.C.'s support of individuals and families around the world living with autism - a wonderful show of community support!
Community events and workshops were held throughout the month of April. These included the ACT-Autism Community Training's 8th Annual Focus on Research Event, as well as innovative workshops for families which provided a lesson on apps for the iPad and other software applications that help children with ASD.
ASD is a complex condition that impacts normal brain development and affects a person's social relationships, communication, interests and behaviour. ASD occurs in all ethnic and social groups. ASD is four times more likely to affect boys than girls.
You may have a family member, friend or neighbour who is living with ASD. If so, you have seen the difficulties these families face. If you are a parent with a child or youth with ASD, you are dealing with these challenges first-hand.
Because ASD challenges can be even greater for families living far from large cities, the Province launched the Autism Outreach Program to offer training and resources to behaviour interventionists and families in rural and remote communities. The second phase of the program was launched earlier this month and offers more e-training for behaviour interventionists through Douglas College and two-day workshops for parents and caregivers to learn best practices and work intervention methods into their daily routines.
There is no cure for ASD and no "one size fits all" intervention. However, there are highly effective treatment methods available that can help people address the specific symptoms and characteristics of this disorder.
Early comprehensive interventions for children with ASD can result in dramatic improvements in language, communication and cognitive abilities to help them achieve more meaningful communication with family and friends.
That's why the B.C. government invests in an integrated, co-ordinated range of services and supports. We are the only province in Canada that has a no-waitlist policy for families to access autism funding once their child or youth has received a confirmed diagnosis of ASD, allowing them to choose the intervention that best meets the needs of their child.
The government provides more than $165 million annually for programs and services that support approximately 7,500 children and youth with ASD and their families - including assessments, funding for early intervention and education funding for students.
For children under age six, families receive access to funding of up to $22,000 per year to help with the cost of autism intervention services. For children and youth aged six to 18, families receive access to funding of up to $6,000 per year to help with the cost of out-of-school intervention services. This is in addition to the $18,300 in per-pupil funding for educational program and special education services provided through school boards.
Together - as parents, families, professionals, researchers, community organizations, and across the government - we all have a shared goal of enhancing outcomes for children with ASD and helping them live enriched lives.
]]>The Roots and Wings Montessori Heritage Home Child Care - a 48-space child-care centre for three to five-year-olds - had been operating in a modular school, but now it has been moved into a newly restored heritage house on the same lot.
Renovated from top to bottom, the heritage house is naturally lit through large windows where the children can enjoy the natural landscape. The playground and surrounding green space has been revamped to incorporate climbing equipment, organic gardening and composting to help children connect to nature and ecosystems.
Renovations took place from April 2011 to March 2012. The doors officially opened on April 4, 2012. The Ministry of Children and Family Development and Roots and Wings Montessori each invested $200,000 in the project.
The child-care centre is part of the larger group of Roots and Wings Montessori centres and schools, founded in Surrey in 1985. Roots and Wings Montessori, following the philosophy begun in 1907 by Maria Montessori, focuses on a child's natural love of learning and provides materials and lessons which encourage them to investigate, imagine and discover.
Quotes:
Stephanie Cadieux, MLA for Surrey-Panorama and Minister of Social Development -
"Today is a celebration for parents, children, and the community. The B.C. government is committed to working closely with families and communities to create a strong foundation for early childhood development, early learning and child care. My constituency will benefit from this newly renovated facility, which provides 48 child-care spaces for young children in the community."
Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development -
"Connecting with nature and inspiring creative play for children are two wonderful themes of modern child cares, and Roots and Wings Montessori has done an exceptional job of bringing these themes to this centre in Surrey. Thanks to this partnership, young children will have the opportunity to grow, play and learn in a healthy, enriching environment."
Kristin Cassie, principal, Roots and Wings Montessori -
"We're delighted with this new centre, which melds the heritage values of children's freedom and connection with the earth, with their guidance in Roots and Wings Montessori's goals for their peaceful future."
Christine Crowe, parent with a child enrolled in Roots and Wings Montessori Heritage Home Child Care -
"The heritage house child-care space is so big and bright and beautiful - I love it! My child really enjoys attending this child care - both for the indoor learning activities, and the outdoor playground activities. We are thankful to everyone involved in this project - as the children really benefit."
Sydney Biddell, age 4, enrolled in Roots and Wings Montessori Heritage Home Child Care -
"I like eating snacks because the snack table is by the window and I like looking out."
Learn More:
If you are a parent and you want to find available child care in your neighbourhood or you would like more information on the child-care subsidy program, go to: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/childcare/parents.htm
If you are a child-care operator and would like more information on funding and services offered through the government, go to: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/childcare/providers.htm
To learn more about Roots and Wings Montessori, go to: www.rootsandwingsbc.com
Contact:
Shae Greenfield
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639
250 508-8403 (cell)
BACKGROUNDER
April 20, 2012 Ministry of Children and Family Development
Facts about child care in B.C.
Contact:
Shae Greenfield
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639
250 508-8403 (cell)
Violence against women can take many forms including domestic violence, emotional abuse, sexual or physical assault or other criminal acts of violence. In British Columbia, the provincial government provides $16.5 million in funding for more than 250 programs that assist women and children who may be in violent situations. These include Stopping the Violence counselling programs, Children Who Witness Abuse counselling programs, Outreach Services programs and Multicultural Outreach Services programs.
If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, resources are available:
The Provincial Office of Domestic Violence was also created last month as a result of a recommendation made by the Representative for Children and Youth in her report on the tragic deaths of the Schoenborn children. This office will ensure there are strengthened and co-ordinated supports and services in place throughout the province for victims of domestic violence and their children.
The Province is also a partner in the anti-violence campaign, Be More than a Bystander, which was launched in June 2011 by the Ending Violence Association of BC and the BC Lions Football Club with financial support from Status of Women Canada, the Ministry of Children and Family Development and Encana Corporation. The program has many elements including having BC Lions players lead interactive workshops in middle schools and high schools throughout B.C. In these workshops, the players engage with young people about issues related to harassment, abuse and the prevention of violence against women.
As we mark Prevention of Violence Against Women Week, British Columbians are encouraged to get involved by attending community events, making a charitable donation or volunteering to help victims of violence and abuse.
Quotes:
Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development -
"As a government, we are always working to strengthen the services we provide to women, children, and families in order to keep them safe. We have made a very serious commitment to enhance and co-ordinate domestic violence services by establishing the Provincial Office of Domestic Violence and to build awareness around prevention of violence against women through initiatives such as the 'Be More than a Bystander' campaign. It is crucial that we draw attention to this important issue in communities across the province, not just as part of Prevention of Violence Against Women Week, but year-round."
Shirley Bond, Minister of Justice and Attorney General -
"As we mark Prevention of Violence Against Women Week, it is important for British Columbians to know that government is committed to reducing violence against women and domestic violence, and making sure there are appropriate supports in place for victims when it does occur. We want women in our province to know they are not alone and that help is available."
Learn More:
Directory of victim services and violence against women programs: http://www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/victimservices/directory/docs/victim-service-directory.pdf
Publications and resources for victims of violence: http://www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/victimservices/publications/index.htm
Events in your community:
Ending Violence Association of BC - "Be More than a Bystander":
http://www.endingviolence.org/node/1089
Contact:
Shae Greenfield
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639
April 15-21 is Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Week in British Columbia to recognize the devastating impacts of child sexual abuse and the importance of working together to keep children safe.
Sexual abuse may be associated with a host of personal, social and health problems including the loss of self esteem, relationship problems, mental health problems, problematic substance use, economic hardship, homelessness and suicide.
Public awareness, community education and clinical services and support for children, youth and families, including those provided by Sexual Abuse Intervention Programs (SAIP) throughout B.C., are key to addressing the issue. The Ministry of Children and Family Development provides funding for 49 SAIP agencies. Overall funding for the SAIP program has increased from $2.9 million in 2007-08 to a present level of $5.2 million. Supports and services, such as counselling, are also provided by community-based Child and Youth Mental Health teams.
The Province also operates Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect (SCAN) units, which provide specialized medical assessment for children and youth who have been, or are suspected of being sexually and/or physically abused. The SCAN units are located in every region of the province, including the Vancouver Island SCAN unit, which is set to open in a new permanent, central location in Nanaimo on April 17. The program was relocated from Victoria to Nanaimo to improve access to services for children and youth who live north of the Malahat, and lessen the need for them to travel off Vancouver Island for services.
There's also a toll-free 24 hour helpline for children - 310-1234 - which can be accessed from anywhere in B.C. No area code is required. Anyone can call - children or youth who need help, parents in crisis who are afraid they might hurt their children or anyone who knows or suspects a child is being abused or neglected.
Quotes:
Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development -
"No child should ever have to experience sexual abuse. It's important for each and everyone one of us to work together to protect those who are most vulnerable in our society.
"Ensuring that children and youth who may have been sexually or physically abused are receiving appropriate services and supports is a priority of the ministry."
Dr. Wilma Arruda, paediatrician, Vancouver Island Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect unit -
"I am so pleased that renovations at our permanent location in Nanaimo have been completed. The opening of this important program has been long anticipated.
"Our highly skilled team will now be able to provide the medical assessments of children and youth across Vancouver Island suspected of having been abused or neglected. We will be seeing our first patients in the clinic this week."
Sandra Bryce, executive director, Mary Manning Centre -
"We all have a part to play in preventing all forms of child abuse. Abuse often occurs when children and youth don't know what to do about the situation they're in and don't know how/or are afraid to get help.
"We need to inform and support children, youth and their families to create strong and safe communities."
Learn More:
For information on the indicators of child abuse, how to report suspected abuse and a range of child-welfare and child-protection resources, please visit: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/child_protection/index.htm
For information on the ministry community-based, Child and Youth Mental Health programs and services in the province, go to: http://www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/mental_health/
Contact:
Shae Greenfield
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639
Cranbrook, along with Prince George, Port Hardy, Surrey, New Westminster, Stewart and Kamloops have been identified as the first to pilot community poverty-reduction strategies. These communities were recommended by the UBCM to reflect a mix of metro, urban, rural and remote communities across B.C.
"Communities are different. Families are different. That is the essence of this project that promotes collaboration and sharing new, innovative ideas that recognize each community and each family has distinctive needs and resources," said Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development. "The goal is to provide low-income families with tailor-made springboards out of poverty by focusing on their strengths - not just their needs."
The ministry is appointing seven community poverty strategy consultants to forge partnerships with local governments, community organizations and local businesses. The consultants will co-ordinate and lead community teams in developing action plans that address the needs of families living in poverty. Action plans with measurable targets will be developed over the summer with implementation scheduled for September 2012.
"This project will help families with children who are living with poverty by addressing the needs specific to our region," said Kootenay-East MLA Bill Bennett. "It is a difficult issue that requires the support of government and I'm happy we're moving forward with this initiative in collaboration with the City of Cranbrook."
The strategies will optimize existing resources and will initially focus on families with children living in poverty. They will be guided by feedback from town hall meetings, community discussions and conversations with low-income families and individuals vulnerable to poverty. Key to developing successful strategies is recognition that each community has distinctive needs and resources.
Community teams will take responsibility for the day-to-day implementation of the project. Key to these strategies is working directly with families to understand their individual needs, connect them with supports and to develop personalized paths out of poverty designed by families themselves.
"By customizing strategies to draw upon the assets in each community, this initiative will provide better support to families in need," said UBCM President Heath Slee. "UBCM has been pleased to work closely with province on this project and we look forward to contributing more as part of the Provincial Steering Committee."
The Province will appoint a provincial steering committee, including representatives from provincial cabinet, the UBCM, the voluntary sector and the business community to guide the project.
"On behalf of the citizens of Cranbrook, I am very pleased to put our city forward to be a pilot for this important initiative," said Cranbrook Mayor Wayne Stetski. "Poverty, and particularly child poverty, is of concern to all of us and finding ways to break the poverty cycle will take all of us working together. I especially like the concept that the successes that we have here will be exported to other communities in British Columbia to help build a healthier province."
Once the project has been implemented in the first seven communities, it will be evaluated and expanded to include 20 more communities each year for the next two years. Future strategies will be based on the successes of participating pilot communities and innovative approaches used successfully in other jurisdictions.
For more information on supports for vulnerable families please visit http://www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/ministries/children-and-family-development/factsheets/reducing-poverty-for-low-income-families.html
Contact:
Brian Cotton
Senior Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-0543
Marylyn Chiang
UBCM Healthy Communities Committee
604 270-8226 ext. 110
Prince George, along with Cranbrook, Port Hardy, Surrey, New Westminster, Stewart and Kamloops have been identified as the first to pilot community poverty-reduction strategies. These communities were recommended by the UBCM to reflect a mix of metro, urban, rural and remote communities across B.C.
"Communities are different. Families are different. That is the essence of this project that promotes collaboration and sharing new, innovative ideas that recognize each community and each family has distinctive needs and resources," said Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development. "The goal is to provide low-income families with tailor-made springboards out of poverty by focusing on their strengths - not just their needs."
"By customizing strategies to draw upon the assets in each community, this initiative will provide better support to families in need," said UBCM President Heath Slee. "UBCM has been pleased to work closely with province on this project and we look forward to contributing more as part of the Provincial Steering Committee."
The ministry is appointing seven community poverty strategy consultants to forge partnerships with local governments, community organizations and local businesses. The consultants will co-ordinate and lead community teams in developing action plans that address the needs of families living in poverty. Action plans with measurable targets will be developed over the summer with implementation scheduled for September 2012.
"Reducing poverty is an important priority for all of us," said Minister of Justice, Attorney General and Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond. "It is essential that we create a plan that addresses the unique issues facing families in Northern B.C. and utilizes the expertise of organizations that currently serve our communities."
Our efforts to strengthen the economy, invest in skills and training and create jobs are working - but we know that we have a lot more to do," said Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation and Prince George-Mackenzie MLA Pat Bell. "Initiatives like this will complement other investments we've made in the community."
The strategies will optimize existing resources and will initially focus on families with children living in poverty. They will be guided by feedback from town hall meetings, community discussions and conversations with low-income families and individuals vulnerable to poverty. Key to developing successful strategies is recognition that each community has distinctive needs and resources.
Community teams will take responsibility for the day-to-day implementation of the project. Key to these strategies is working directly with families to understand their individual needs, connect them with supports and to develop personalized paths out of poverty designed by families themselves.
"The City of Prince George has a history of working cooperatively and progressively with our community partners to further social development goals," said Prince George Mayor Shari Green. "We welcome the opportunity to work in collaboration with these organizations to act on our shared commitment to address poverty."
"We firmly believe that helping people find their way out of poverty goes beyond addressing immediate needs and requires governments, businesses and community-based service providers to work collectively in developing approaches that address the underlying factors that result in families living in poverty," said Executive Director of the United Way of Northern British Columbia Trevor Williams. "It is encouraging to see that this initiative involves a number of key partners in addressing the issue of families vulnerable to poverty."
The Province will appoint a provincial steering committee, including representatives from provincial cabinet, the UBCM, the voluntary sector and the business community to guide the project.
Once the project has been implemented in the first seven communities, it will be evaluated and expanded to include 20 more communities each year for the next two years. Future strategies will be based on the successes of participating pilot communities and innovative approaches used successfully in other jurisdictions.
For more information on supports for vulnerable families please visit http://www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/ministries/children-and-family-development/factsheets/reducing-poverty-for-low-income-families.html
Contact:
Brian Cotton
Senior Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-0543
Marylyn Chiang
UBCM Healthy Communities Committee
604 270-8226 ext. 11
Kamloops, along with Prince George, Port Hardy, Surrey, New Westminster, Stewart and Cranbrook has been identified as the first to pilot community poverty-reduction strategies. These communities were recommended by the UBCM to reflect a mix of metro, urban, rural and remote communities across B.C.
"Communities are different. Families are different. That is the essence of this project that promotes collaboration and sharing new, innovative ideas that recognize each community and each family has distinctive needs and resources," said Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development. "The goal is to provide low-income families with tailor-made springboards out of poverty by focusing on their strengths - not just their needs."
The ministry is appointing seven community poverty strategy consultants to forge partnerships with local governments, community organizations and local businesses. The consultants will co-ordinate and lead community teams in developing action plans that address the needs of families living in poverty. Action plans with measurable targets will be developed over the summer with implementation scheduled for September 2012.
"Every community is different," said Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Terry Lake. "This project will focus on addressing poverty in seven communities, including Kamloops, by developing action plans that reflect each community's own particular needs and resources."
"The project's focus will be on designing innovative services that work for low-income families vulnerable to poverty in Kamloops," said Kamloops-South Thompson MLA Kevin Krueger. "We'll be working with UBCM to encourage local governments to participate."
The strategies will optimize existing resources and will initially focus on families with children living in poverty. They will be guided by feedback from town hall meetings, community discussions and conversations with low-income families and individuals vulnerable to poverty. Key to developing successful strategies is recognition that each community has distinctive needs and resources.
Community teams will take responsibility for the day-to-day implementation of the project. Key to these strategies is working directly with families to understand their individual needs, connect them with supports and to develop personalized paths out of poverty designed by families themselves.
"By customizing strategies to draw upon the assets in each community, this initiative will provide better support to families in need," said UBCM President Heath Slee. "UBCM has been pleased to work closely with province on this project and we look forward to contributing more as part of the Provincial Steering Committee."
The Province will appoint a provincial steering committee, including representatives from provincial cabinet, the UBCM, the voluntary sector and the business community to guide the project.
"By involving families vulnerable to poverty in the planning process, we will be able to better address the struggles they face every day," said Kamloops Mayor Peter Milobar. "Kamloops welcomes the opportunity to collaborate with project partners in identifying the supports and services required to help families break the cycle of poverty in this community."
Once the project has been implemented in the first seven communities, it will be evaluated and expanded to include 20 more communities each year for the next two years. Future strategies will be based on the successes of participating pilot communities and innovative approaches used successfully in other jurisdictions.
For more information on supports for vulnerable families please visit http://www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/ministries/children-and-family-development/factsheets/reducing-poverty-for-low-income-families.html
Contact:
Brian Cotton
Senior Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-0543
Marylyn Chiang
UBCM Healthy Communities Committee
604 270-8226 ext. 110
Surrey, along with Prince George, Port Hardy, Cranbrook, New Westminster, Stewart and Kamloops has been identified as the first to pilot community poverty-reduction strategies. These communities were recommended by the UBCM to reflect a mix of metro, urban, rural and remote communities across B.C.
"Communities are different. Families are different. That is the essence of this project that promotes collaboration and sharing new, innovative ideas that recognize each community and each family has distinctive needs and resources," said Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development. "The goal is to provide low-income families with tailor-made springboards out of poverty by focusing on their strengths - not just their needs."
The ministry is appointing seven community poverty strategy consultants to forge partnerships with local governments, community organizations and local businesses. The consultants will co-ordinate and lead community teams in developing action plans that address the needs of families living in poverty. Action plans with measurable targets will be developed over the summer with implementation scheduled for September 2012.
"By focusing on addressing the particular needs of Surrey families living in poverty, this project will ensure we develop targeted action plans to help those less fortunate," said Surrey-Panorama MLA Stephanie Cadieux.
The strategies will optimize existing resources and will initially focus on families with children living in poverty. They will be guided by feedback from town hall meetings, community discussions and conversations with low-income families and individuals vulnerable to poverty. Key to developing successful strategies is recognition that each community has distinctive needs and resources.
"Surrey is a growing community and by enhancing existing resources and tailoring innovative services to our community, this project will provide improved support to families in need," said Surrey-Cloverdale MLA Kevin Falcon.
"Every community has different challenges for families living in poverty," said Surrey-Tynehead MLA Dave S. Hayer. "This project will optimize existing resources to assist low-income families in Surrey escape poverty."
Community teams will take responsibility for the day-to-day implementation of the project. Key to these strategies is working directly with families to understand their individual needs, connect them with supports and to develop personalized paths out of poverty designed by families themselves.
"By customizing strategies to draw upon the assets in each community, this initiative will provide better support to families in need," said UBCM President Heath Slee. "UBCM has been pleased to work closely with province on this project and we look forward to contributing more as part of the Provincial Steering Committee."
The Province will appoint a provincial steering committee, including representatives from provincial cabinet, the UBCM, the voluntary sector and the business community to guide the project.
"Surrey is pleased to partner in this new pilot project which will take a holistic and integrated approach to addressing the needs of low-income families, and will complement the efforts already being made in Surrey," said Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts. "We need to develop innovative strategies around income, housing, transportation and supports to help lift families and children out of poverty."
Once the project has been implemented in the first seven communities, it will be evaluated and expanded to include 20 more communities each year for the next two years. Future strategies will be based on the successes of participating pilot communities and innovative approaches used successfully in other jurisdictions.
For more information on supports for vulnerable families please visit http://www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/ministries/children-and-family-development/factsheets/reducing-poverty-for-low-income-families.html
Contact:
Brian Cotton
Senior Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-0543
Marylyn Chiang
UBCM Healthy Communities Committee
604 270-8226 ext. 110
Prince George, Cranbrook, Port Hardy, Surrey, New Westminster, Stewart and Kamloops have been identified as the first to pilot community poverty-reduction strategies. These communities were recommended by the UBCM to reflect a mix of metro, urban, rural and remote communities across B.C.
"Communities are different. Families are different. That is the essence of this project that promotes collaboration and sharing new, innovative ideas that recognize each community and each family has distinctive needs and resources," said Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development. "The goal is to provide low-income families with tailor-made springboards out of poverty by focusing on their strengths - not just their needs."
The ministry is appointing seven community poverty strategy consultants to forge partnerships with local governments, community organizations and local businesses. The consultants will co-ordinate and lead community teams in developing action plans that address the needs of families living in poverty. Action plans with measurable targets will be developed over the summer with implementation scheduled for September 2012.
The strategies will optimize existing resources and will initially focus on families with children living in poverty. They will be guided by feedback from town hall meetings, community discussions and conversations with low-income families and individuals vulnerable to poverty. Key to developing successful strategies is recognition that each community has distinctive needs and resources.
Community teams will take responsibility for the day-to-day implementation of the project. Key to these strategies is working directly with families to understand their individual needs, connect them with supports and to develop personalized paths out of poverty designed by families themselves.
"By customizing strategies to draw upon the assets in each community, this initiative will provide better support to families in need," said UBCM President Heath Slee. "UBCM has been pleased to work closely with province on this project and we look forward to contributing more as part of the Provincial Steering Committee."
"We firmly believe that helping people find their way out of poverty goes beyond addressing immediate needs and requires governments, businesses and community-based service providers to work collectively in developing approaches that address the underlying factors that result in families living in poverty," said Executive Director of the United Way of Northern British Columbia Trevor Williams. "It is encouraging to see that this initiative involves a number of key partners in addressing the issue of families vulnerable to poverty."
The Province will appoint a provincial steering committee, including representatives from provincial cabinet, the UBCM, the voluntary sector and the business community to guide the project.
Once the project has been implemented in the first seven communities, it will be evaluated and expanded to include 20 more communities each year for the next two years. Future strategies will be based on the successes of participating pilot communities and innovative approaches used successfully in other jurisdictions.
For more information on supports for vulnerable families please visit http://www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/ministries/children-and-family-development/factsheets/reducing-poverty-for-low-income-families.html
Contact:
Brian Cotton
Senior Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-0543
Marylyn Chiang
UBCM Healthy Communities Committee
604 270-8226 ext. 110
Local, community-based training will be offered for parents and caregivers to incorporate autism intervention methods into their daily routines. The Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) will provide up to 24 two-day workshops to families across the province throughout the coming year, with a primary focus on families in rural and remote communities. To help families plan for their child's specific needs within their own communities, the workshops will provide information on autism, intervention planning and give them access to local resources.
In addition, MCFD continues its partnership with Douglas College to offer affordable e-training programs to train an additional 60 behaviour interventionists in rural and remote communities. The online program allows students to train from their communities, without any need to relocate or travel to a bigger city centre to go to school. MCFD funding significantly reduces the cost of the training for students.
In the first phase of the Autism Outreach Program, 30 behaviour interventionists took the e-training program through Douglas College, and approximately 600 child development professionals throughout B.C. received in-person training on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs).
The ministry provided $150,000 for phase one of the Autism Outreach Program and is providing $250,000 for phase two. This funding comes from within the existing fiscal plan. The program will continue to be developed in phases to ensure that it aligns with changes in provincial demographics and the progression of provincial autism services over time.
The Autism Outreach Program was launched in 2011 in response to families, professionals and community groups who clearly identified the need and desire to improve training and support for service providers, parents and caregivers who live in rural and remote communities.
Quotes:
Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development -
"As we celebrate Autism Awareness Month here in B.C., it's important to value the wonderful partnerships we have with community groups and post secondary institutions - such as ACT-Autism Community Training and Douglas College - where we work together to build public awareness, open up new opportunities for training and continually improve support networks for families affected by autism. We are especially reaching out to those who live in rural and remote communities with quality training opportunities for service providers and families."
Deborah Pugh, executive director, ACT-Autism Community Training -
"Families who live in smaller communities can have difficulties accessing services. ACT is very supportive of this initiative as it can strengthen the training available to rural and remote areas of the province. When families better understand autism, the positive impact on their lives is huge."
Lori Woods, co-ordinator, behaviour intervention program, Douglas College -
"We've been overwhelmed with the positive response from behaviour interventionists across the province who are eager to take advantage of this opportunity and we look forward to a continued partnership with the ministry. We are also very pleased that a number of the participants have decided to continue on this rewarding career path and carry on with their studies towards the behaviour intervention certificate."
Dr. Elizabeth Athens, instructor, behaviour intervention program, Douglas College -
"It has been my sincere pleasure to teach practitioners in the interior of British Columbia. They have all been incredibly dedicated to building on their education and have brought priceless experience and curiosity to course discussions. I am encouraged to see that children diagnosed with autism throughout B.C. are getting access to early intervention implemented by practitioners who have a sound education in the field."
Sana Mohammed, student, behaviour intervention program, Douglas College -
"I absolutely loved this course! It has helped me extensively and it has been such a wonderful learning curve. I was a new behaviour interventionist last June, and I was nervous at the beginning because I knew I did not have any actual training or accreditation. I know for a fact that I will remain in the field of autism for as long as I can!"
Learn More:
BACKGROUNDER
Facts about Autism and the Autism Outreach ProgramContact:
Shae Greenfield
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639
250 508-8403 (cell)