April, 2010 - The announced cut by the provincial government to Success By 6 BC funding (50% in fiscal 2010-11 and a 100% cut as of April 1, 2011) is a call to action to defend the investment in the well-being of young children and their families. The withdrawal of $5 million by the Ministry of Children and Family Development risks the additional loss of the annual $400,000 contribution from credit unions in this partnership and the matching funds raised by United Ways. These combined funds have been supporting over 400 programs and initiatives in 240 BC communities. We all know that funding for early years programs and services in BC is a fragile patchwork of grants stitched together from many sources. The ramifications of this cut, and the loss of leveraged funds through the partnerships created, will be predictably far reaching and devastating to efforts to support young children and their families in communities around the province. Even more importantly, this cut ensures we will lose the well-documented return on the investment in improved outcomes and life chances for BC’s children. This short-sighted cut must be re-visited in light of these facts. Contact your MLA and the Minister of Children and Family Development now to let them know that you oppose this cut. Talk to your local media too. Let them know what programs and services will disappear from your community with the withdrawal of these funds. Our youngest children need all of our voices to speak up for them now. Adrienne Montani, Provincial Coordinator First Call: BC Child and Youth Advocacy Coalition 604.873.8437 amontani@fsgv.ca www.firstcallbc.org | 
