Dear sisters and brothers,

As CUPW’s newly elected 2nd National Vice President, I am very excited that the Special Needs and Moving On projects will be part of my responsibilities. These projects are widely recognized as models of support for working parents whose children have disabilities.

My partner Tammy Garrett is a letter carrier in the Ottawa local, and together we are foster parents to Jesse, Colin and Alec. We know first-hand what is involved in working and having children with special needs. Our family situation has affected every aspect of my life, including scheduling specialist, medical and school appointments, financial stresses, time pressures around homework, and providing emotional support for the kids.

I have been on the CUPW National Executive Board since 1999, when I was elected 1st National Vice- President. Originally from rural Saskatchewan, I was a letter carrier in Edmonton. I was a member of the negotiating committee when the Child Care Fund was established.

I will work hard to ensure the Special Needs and Moving On projects continue to deliver the resources and services that have made such a difference to the lives of CUPW families who have children with special needs. And I will actively pressure governments and employers to provide much-needed support through programs, policies and benefits for workers who are trying to balance work and family life.

I look forward to hearing from you and to continuing to read your inspiring stories in Member to Member Connection.

In solidarity,
Lynn Bue

Please visit and bookmark www.specialneedsproject.ca.