Spokesperson and proud supporter

I was born into a wealthy and caring family. A child from the DYP might be born to drug addicted parents or  into a neglectful family. The difference between us? Luck.

When I was 10, I thought family vacations, gymnastics classes, and birthdays with friends were normal. I thought that’s what all children did.  But children from the DYP? At 10 years old, they watched other young people have fun with their families, win medals, be celebrated. And they’ve known for a long, long time that their lives are very different.

I want to use my voice and say that they exist, that they are there and that they need us. You know me, when I speak my heart races and I often say things that make people react. But I will never speak loudly enough when it comes  to saying that we have to stand up for these children. Let them be reminded that they are not the sum of their parents’ mistakes.

I dream that each of the young people of the DYP will be surrounded by tender love, like the love I experienced during my childhood. Like the love we give to our children, grandchildren, nephews, nieces … And I am convinced that together we can make it happen. We can say to these children,  loud and clear: “You are important too!”

Since I decided to share my story, I am frequently called upon to talk about the reality of young people who are supported by the DYP. I know how challenging this time in their life can be.

Every time I speak, my goal is always the same: to speak about what is unacceptable for our children, to find solutions and above all, to give hope to all these young people who are under the youth protection law. Our outstretched hands can help them build a happier future.

As a proud supporter, I have seen for several years the major impact of the small actions taken by the Foundation. You cannot imagine the happiness that a  child of the DYP feels when they are  applauded during a soccer match, receive encouragement for drawing a beautiful picture or cheered for receiving a diploma that recognizes their academic efforts.

Every time we mobilize to help our young people who need it most, it is a huge victory! Thank you for supporting these children.