In Brief

• The Fraser region “Roots are Forever” program provided two opportunities for Aboriginal children and youth to connect with their families, communities and culture this summer. In total 28 children and youth, one birth mother, one grandmother and 11 foster parents attended Homecoming ceremonies, including a 17-year-old who reconnected with his mother whom he had not seen since he was two, and met his siblings and their children for the very first time.

• The South Vancouver Youth Centre (SVYC) School Program was proud to acknowledge their first two graduates on June 12th. The ceremony was the first of its kind for the agency, as 50 guests warmly welcomed Amanda and Steven while they accepted flowers, a commemorative plaque and enduring affection from an enthusiastic crowd

• October was Foster Family Month and every region recognized the thousands of foster families across the province and the remarkable contribution they make in our communities. Numerous foster parent appreciation luncheons, dinners and events took place in all five regions over the course of the month. In addition, a nation-wide public service announcement to raise awareness about fostering and adoption aired in theatres across Canada throughout October.