“Make Children First” is a new community partnership committed to promoting diversity and the equal rights of all children and families to optimal development and well being. Our program serves the Bulkley Valley in northern British Columbia. Similar programs are emerging across the province.

Powerful new evidence shows that children with a strong beginning are far more likely to achieve higher education levels, maintain employment, and live healthy lives as adults. The years from preconception to school entry are critical in shaping a child’s ability to love, trust and learn. Research also indicates social and physical environments effect brain development much more than previously realized which means that early childhood development is a societal and community issue.

The goal of Make Children First is to bring service providers, parents, business, government and community citizens together to learn about the strengths, needs, and characteristics of their community, and how to work together to provide better services for all children and families. We expect that our experience will result in heightened community awareness and involvement, more opportunities for early identification and screening of children’s needs, and improved access to services for families.

The Initiative is funded by the Ministry of Children and Family Development and is built upon the strengths and commitment of a broad range of organizations and individuals in our community including:

• The Moricetown Band Council,
• Smithers Community Services Association,
• School District #54,
• Supported Childcare,
• Dze L’Kant Friendship Centre,
• Bulkley Valley Child Development Centre,
• Office of the Wet’su’weten,
• Ministry of Children and Family Development,
• Northern Health Authority, NW Health Unit,
• Northern Society of Domestic Peace, and
• Bulkley Valley Credit Union.

We share a common vision that working together will create new opportunities and overcome barriers in supporting inclusive community actions.