The Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) program is a municipal-provincial partnership through which people can develop services and perform activities that strengthen their families and communities. FCSS is one way that locals can increase their sense of belonging in their community. By assuming responsibility and working together, citizens create a better social and emotional climate in their community for themselves and others.

FCSS-designated programs are to be preventative and are designed to:

• enhance, strengthen, and stabilize family and community life.
• improve individuals' ability to identify and act on their social needs. 
• prevent family and community breakdowns.
• provide additional programs on the basis of clear need and effective planning.
• encourage cooperation and coordination with allied service agencies already operating within the community.

The following is a list of currently funded FCSS programs and the time frame in which these programs happen.

After School Cooking Program This cooking program is for 11-12 yr. olds. and provides social interaction and encourages healthy eating and safe food handling practices.  This is an excellent program that teaches life skills to young people.  Program runs spring and fall. 

Between Friends An Intergenerational program that provides a forum for youth and seniors to create meaningful and lasting relationships. Residents of the Chinook Lodge are involved.  Ongoing. 

Bicycle Skills Course A fun, relaxing social opportunity for families and youth ages 5-14. An obstacle course is set up to test and teach bicycle safety skills and education about safe bicycle road rules and helmet and bicycle maintenance information.  The R.C.M.P., Chinook Health Unit and volunteers are involved and share in educating and enhancing life skills for area young people.  One day scheduled in July or August, will be advertised a through the school and local newspaper. 

Block Parent Program Program provides a safe refuge for those in need.  Education for children of the community and provides for citizens in general as it is a services provided to everyone in need. Ongoing.

Books for Babies Parents receive a book bag on thier 1st visit from the CHR nurse.  Books for Babies is a community based volunteer literacy project promoting reading as family activity.  This prevention program delivers books and information to new parents and stresses the importance of reading to very young children. Ongoing. 

Children's Festival Festival that allows children to do arts and crafts and other hands on activities and are exposed to top notch professional performers and music.  The inspiration of children with access to these activities provides a foundation for a life of interest and awareness. One Saturday in June. 

Citizen's On Patrol Volunteers act as eyes and ears in the community and are a vital part of the community policing  program ensuring the community is safe and enjoyable place to live. Ongoing. 

Community Awarenes Evening A community information event in the form of a bazaar.  Various service agencies are invited to have a booth to share their information.  Last Monday in November.

Community Kitchen Program A program providing an opportunity for adults to gain skills in food preparation, hygiene, nutrition, shopping and storage of food helping them become more independent and resilient to crises.  Program also provides ongoing support and a chance to socialize with other adults. Ongoing.

D.A.R.E. A cooperative, community policing effort adminstered and presented by members of the Cardston detachment of the R.C.M.P. to local area elementary schools in conjunction with Westwind School Division.  The D.A.R.E. program provides students life skills training, information and knowledge of the harmful effects of violence, gangs and drug abuse. During the school year.

Family Violence Prevention Program Individuals representing groups and agencies who recognize the catalysts that trigger violence in the family unit and are prepared to offer educational programs that are preventative in focus. Ongoing.

Halloween Carnival A program to provide an alternative to door to door trick or treating.  A carnival atmosphere with volunteers helping with the booths. October 31.

Handi Bus Provides transportation to Senior's and disabled persons.  This allows them to maintain residency in their own homes longer and allows them to have more interaction with other seniors by attending events. Ongoing

Historical Society This society maintains community historical artefacts and offer an opportunity for socializing and interactions with other people with similiar interests. Meets monthly.

Meals on Wheels Delivery of meals to older and disabled citizens.  Funds do not supply food only office support.  Volunteers deliver food prepared at Senior's lodge. Ongoing.

Moms and Tots Skate This program is not funded by FCSS but is organized and advertised by this office.  Program provides an opportunity for parents to teach their young children skating skills without having the congestion of skaters during normal public skating times. Free of charge.  October - March.

Native Liaison By-Law Officer An initiative to assist vagrants in the community by getting them into counselling or making a move to a more productive, meaningful life.

Parent Link Centre Provides a variety of programs for families.  Programs offered are unique and assist in child's vocabulary and language development. Other resources include parenting support, toy-lending library, clothing and toy exchange, parenting workshops, support groups and screening programs. Includes Stay'N Play program. Free of charge.  Ongoing.

Family School Liaison Worker  Provides assistance to students and families in situations where students might be experiencing difficulties, either at home or at school, in an effort to prevent a breakdown of family, child and school relationships. Ongoing.

Senior's Organizations FCSS matches all local Senior's organizations dollar for dollar membership fees up to a maximum of $1,000.00 to help enable them to have interactive social opportunities which enhances constructive relationships and helps their daily life from becoming sedentary.  FCSS also assists in the operation of the Tanner Senior Centre. Ongoing

Victims Services A community policing program to assist victims of crime. FCSS funds training and volunteers donate time and expenses. Ongoing

Volunteer Appreciation An evening event with 4 guests invited from every program in the community focusing on volunteers.  A meal and entertainment is provided with small gifts and prizes. First friday in December.

What Every Babysitter Should Know St. John Ambulance course offered in the community teaching preventative measures for young babysitters.  Course is one day for youth ages 11 and up. September.

Why Try Program The programs goal is to help youth answer the question "Why Try in Life?" The program offers real solutions and presents the solutions in a way that the youth can both understand and remember.

Women's Conference A program for all women, regardless of age, race or socioeconomic background.  An opportunity to meet together once a year to relax, socialize and learn, while attending an affordable conference that fosters a relaxing fun environment.

For more information on any of these programs, please contact:

Chris Fox
FCSS Director
Town of Cardston
Phone: (403) 653-1883
Toll Free: 1-888-434-3366
Email: info@cardston.ca