FCSS grants deadline fast approaching
If you’ve got an idea for a program that could contribute to or improve your community, then look no further for the financial means to do so— FCSS grants are at your disposal.
Yellowhead County still has Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) grants available for 2017. The grants enable County communities to develop or enhance their own programs and services. These programs are usually about improving the social well-being of individuals, families, and the community.
FCSS Supervisor Wendy Robinson shares: “The County has a lot of distinct communities and we can’t provide services and programs in all of the areas. Grants are a way for communities to create their own resources and also maintain ownership and responsibility, they truly reflect the needs and strengths of individual communities.”
Grants are available for groups that want to offer workshops, programs or services that are socially preventive in nature. As a result, the FCSS Advisory Board has identified specific areas for grants, including intergenerational programs, social seniors, multicultural activities and child and youth projects. As well, a “NeighbourLinking” grant is available for individuals that would like to hold an event for neighbours to get to know each other, similar to a block party in a town.
FCSS has been providing grants to communities and programs for many years. An example of a grant project that has been locally run and highly successful over the years is the Grandparent Program run by the Wildwood Seniors, in partnership with the Wildwood School.
FCSS grant applications are reviewed and approved through the FCSS Advisory Board. The board meets bi-monthly and will be accepting grant applications until October 18th, for the November 1st FCSS Board Meeting. Grant requests in excess of $10,000 must be approved by Council.
For more information or to request a grant application package, please visit the Yellowhead County webpage or contact the Yellowhead County Office in Wildwood at 780-325-3782.
FCSS is an 80/20 partnership between the Provincial Government and municipalities. Its purpose is to support the provision of preventive social services at the local level.