A Yekooche First Nations couple is walking from Prince Rupert to Prince George to raise awareness of children in care.
Jordan and Kim Joseph started the walk from Prince Rupert on July 27th making stops in Terrace, Kitwanga, Witset, and Smithers today. (Tuesday)
“We’re really trying to stop in places and raise awareness of what the ministry’s still doing,” said Kim.
Their stops have been outside provincial buildings where Ministry of Child and Family Development (MCFD) offices are located.
The pair started the walk after their kids were taken into custody by the ministry and are now fighting to be allowed to see them again.
According to Kim, the First Nation employee who escorted MCFD thought it would just be a routine visit.
“When we opened the door, [the employee] thought it was just a quick hello, check on us. But the ministry told us that they’re taking our children,” she said.
The current route they’re walking was chosen as three of their kids are in Prince Rupert with the fourth in Prince George.
Another hope for the couple is that more support can be made available for families, especially single fathers.
Prince George is the current end point for their journey but plans to continue to Vancouver are also being discussed pending wildfires and flood risks.
Progress on the couple’s journey is being shared to their Facebook group, “Walking for All Children in Ministry Care.”
Pending tire repairs, the couple hope to be in Houston tomorrow. (Wednesday)
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