We respectfully request that the details of this story are not shared outside this evening for confidentiality reasons.

Ten year-old Cypris is a funny, engaging young boy who spent much of his early life moving around family members before being placed in foster care as his dad is in prison and his mother is not able to care for him. He has been through an enormous amount, and when he came into our programme was not able to read and write, and struggled with managing his emotions.

BBBS supported Oranga Tamariki with finding a more positive living environment for Cypris and his sister.  He is now in a safe environment and looked after by a wonderful foster carer who has made an incredible difference in his life.

His mentor Will is in the technology field, and has been matched with Cypris for nearly two years. He wanted to become involved with BBBS because he has a huge passion for supporting kids in Auckland, and had time to give back. He has become part of Cypris’ family over their match, and is always present for birthdays and celebrations on top of their weekly hangouts.

Will and Cypris love getting out in nature, going hiking and bike riding, and the beach in summer. Cypris is now reading and writing, and flourishing in his new environment. We are so proud of how far he has come!