Strengthening Families

Programs and services supporting the healthy development
and well-being of children

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Home Child Care Community Action Program for Children Strengthening Families Parenting Journey

Program Overview

The Strengthening Families Program provides community-based programs and services that support the healthy development and well-being of children, youth and families. Funding for this program is made available from the Department of Community Services, Prevention & Early Intervention, Child & Family Well-being. Historically, this funding was called core funding and implemented in 2008. Over the years, it has increased and supports well over 20 programs in the province.

Accessible, holistic, and family-focused programs and services are offered to families and caregivers with children aged 0-18. Provincial funding enables community-based family resource programs to offer services and programs that help children and youth prenatally through to adolescents.

The goal is to enhance child and family well-being by reducing the isolation of families, providing information and resources to encourage healthy child development and positive parenting.

The Strengthening Families Program provides services and supports in the following areas:

  • Parent Education and Learning
  • Family Support
  • Child and Youth Development
  • Community Linkages

Benefits of Strengthening Families Programming

Key Areas of Intervention

  • Child & Youth Development, Safety and Well-Being Supports
  • Parenting Support
  • Family Support
  • Social & Community Connections
  • Culturally Relevant & Responsive Supports
  • Supporting Child Development
    Programs and services are offered to help children grow and develop in a healthy way. These programs can include early learning experiences -  art, music and movement activities.
  • Parent Education
    These programs are designed to enhance existing skills through formal and informal learning opportunities.
    (Packaged parenting programs, workshops, etc.)
  • Practical Assistance
    Provision of practical assistance to families, such as access to information, food supports, and other family basic needs.
  • Reduced Social Isolation
    Involvement encourages community engagement and social connections to help reduce social isolation.
Programs may change quarterly, please check the calendar for the most up to date programming.

Programs for Parents/Caregivers and Children

12 months – 5 years
  • Book Buddies
    A program designed to introduce literacy in young children.
  • Grandparent Time
    Grandparents and children connect in a group setting.
  • Art Expressions
    Express yourself through art!
  • Muddy Buddies
    Suit up and join us on the playground to get muddy!
  • Breakfast Buddies
    Join us for breakfast! A program to connect with other families over the most important meal of the day.
  • Staying Connected
    A drop-in program available for families to stay connected during their busy schedules.
  • Family Fitness
    A space and place for families to be active together.
  • Messy Monday
    Parents/caregivers and children come together and try sensory activities in a safe space.
  • Newcomer Drop-In
    A time for newcomer families to come together, practice English and make new connections.
  • Music and Movement
    Music can help children improve their mood, regulate their emotions, and express themselves.
  • Saturday Drop-In
    A drop-in program available for families on Saturday mornings.

Programs for Parents

Childcare available for children 12 months and up, babes-in-arms welcome
  • Parent Education
    Parenting is an “awesome job”! It can be both rewarding and difficult. Programs are tailored to meet the needs of parents and other adults in a parenting role and are offered in a warm and welcoming environment. These programs provide developmental knowledge, as well as promoting family nurturing and bonding. Parents and supportive adults are encouraged to gain and share experiences on a variety of topics.
  • Postpartum Wellness
    Sessions for parents to talk postpartum.
  • Clothing Depot Drop-In
    Come visit our clothing depot! Clothing and household and personal hygiene items at no cost.
  • Crockpot Cooking
    A cooking program for families centered around using your crockpot.
  • Traditional Cooking
    A cooking program for families to come together share, prepare and try recipes.

Children’s Programming

  • Cooking with Kids
    cooking program designed for children to prepare a small meal/snack to share with their parents/caregivers.
  • Kids Have Stress, Too!
    Stress can affect children’s physical, emotional, social and intellectual well being. A program designed to help children and parents identify and cope with stress.
  • Outreach Services
    Outreach support with Beacon House, Freedom Kitchen & Souls Harbour distributing “Parent/Child Interactive Kits”.
  • Volunteer Participation
    Volunteers meet once a week and work on various projects to enhance programming within the association and the community.

Other Services Offered

  • Informational Workshops
    Sessions identified by participants as being of interest.
  • Car Seat Technicians On-Site
    Available to support families with car seat questions/installations.
  • Helping Cupboard
    A program designed to support families with basic needs such as diapers, hygiene products and cleaning supplies etc.
  • Funding for Basic Needs
    Support for families around food & other basic needs
  • Internet and Printing Services
    Available in the main office.
  • Laundry Services
    Available on-site to families.
  • Volunteer Opportunities
    Contact us to learn more!

How do I become involved?

If you’re looking for more information on how to get involved, please fill out the form on our contact page, call or email us.

  • PDF Full Program Description
  • PDF Quarterly Registration Form
  • Is there a cost associated with these programs?
    No, all programs are free of charge.
  • How do I register for a program?
    Fill out the quarterly registration, call the centre at 902-864-6363 or email us to check program availability.
  • Where can I find a list of everything happening at the centre?
    Check out our calendar or Facebook page.