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By rdnewsNOW Staff

$2.47 Million In Funding

Funding announced for preventive social well-being programs

Jul 10, 2023 | 1:40 PM

Red Deer & District Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) has awarded $2.47 million in annual funding over the next three years to programs focusing on positive child and youth development, mental health, strong neighbourhoods and communities, and strong family connections.

According to The City of Red Deer, 22 programs were chosen by the Red Deer & District FCSS Board for a total of $2.47 million in annual funding for January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2026.

Officials say programs are offered within the Red Deer & District FCSS region, which includes the partner municipalities of The City of Red Deer, Red Deer County, Town of Bowden, Town of Penhold, Village of Delburne and Village of Elnora.

“This funding really focuses on current priorities in our communities,” said Milt Williams, Red Deer & District FCSS Board Chair. “Alberta’s FCSS program is unique in Canada in the freedom it gives to local communities to decide what needs matter to them. We are so grateful to the many stakeholders who informed the process, and the many applicants who applied for funding.”

Programs for preschool-aged children are also on the list, say City officials. Investing in young families and children is said to foster positive early childhood development, improve school readiness and strengthen family connections.

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“Our local FCSS funding focuses on early prevention, while recognizing the diverse needs in our communities,” said Williams. “By being proactive we can reduce the chance of crisis occurring or minimize its impact. These efforts are key to mitigating instances of domestic violence, crime, addictions and homelessness.”

City officials note that supports for children and youth, family counselling and outreach for seniors were among the programs selected, along with assistance for immigrant youth and Indigenous-led initiatives.

The Red Deer & District FCSS mandate is to provide preventive social programming that enhances the social well-being of individuals and families through promotion or intervention strategies provided at the earliest opportunity. Provincial funding (80 per cent) is matched with municipal tax dollars (20 per cent).

Officials say the programs are selected through a rigorous process, which also considered factors such as an agency’s leadership, willingness to collaborate and financial accountability. The City says 32 applications for a total of $4.22 million in funding were received, $1.79 million more than was available for this funding cycle.

A complete list of funded projects is available on The City’s website.