Governor Visits Westborough For DCF Summit

More than 100 foster children had the chance to meet yesterday with Gov. Deval Patrick and share experiences with each other at the Department of Children and Families' Annual Summit in Westborough.

“I’m very proud of all of the young people who came out to share their stories and experiences,” Patrick said in a press release. “This is all about empowering foster youth to realize their dreams and prepare for the journey that lies ahead.”

The foster children participated in “workshops on financial literacy, higher education programs, career options, health living and community involvement,” the press release noted.

“We know that these kids have amazing potential,” said Secretary of Health & Human Services JudyAnn Bigby. “This summit helps foster youth create friendships and bonds that can last a lifetime.”

The department’s Youth Advisory Board collaborates with the DCF to put on the summit. The board is comprised of former foster care youth who give ideas and recommendations to the department.

The summit is organized around the idea that when foster children can share their experiences, they can discover the best ways to move forward with their lives, said Joanne Jaxtimer, BNY Mellon Regional Executive of New England. BNY Mellon sponsored the summit and provided staff volunteers for the event.