In response to growing needs, Lacombe County has announced a hike in funding for Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) by $30,000 for the 2025 fiscal year.
“As our communities grow, so do the challenges our residents face. This funding increase will allow us to respond proactively to community needs, especially for seniors who may not be aware of the support available to them,” said Lacombe County Reeve Barb Shepherd.
“We’re committed to making these resources accessible and ensuring that all residents benefit from FCSS programs.”
In addition to approving this funding increase for 2025, the county reviewed its 2024 year-end funding and determined the FCSS program was under spent by about $22,750.
Given this surplus, the county has proposed the unspent funds be reallocated to meet the needs of local organizations whose funding requests for 2024 could not be fully met. This reallocation ensures they can continue their work across Lacombe County, supporting a variety of demographics, including youth and seniors, continued the release.
Michael Minchin, director of corporate services, echoed the reeve’s sentiments, adding, “Supporting our communities has always been a priority for Lacombe County. We recognize the importance of these programs in promoting well-being and are dedicated to strengthening the support systems that so many of our residents rely on.”
Council approved funding for the following community programs in 2025 and ongoing annual funding, pending the yearly review of each program to make sure that it is operational, continues to be a valuable resource to the community, and has sufficient funding available.
• Alix Family and Community Support Society - $1,500
• Alix Mirror Wellness Supports Society - $18,355
• Bentley Community Services- $13,690
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lacombe and District - $6,000
• Blackfalds Abbey Centre Camp Curious - $4,000
• Blackfalds FCSS – Seniors Programs $4,000
• BGC Wolf Creek Lacombe - $2,500
• Eckville and Community Youth Society - $2,000
• Eckville Recreation Board – Summer Camp $2,000
• Eckville & Area Children’s Playgroup $2,500
• Friends of Mirror Library Society $5,400
• Lacombe and District FCSS $26,125
• Lacombe FCSS (Clive, Mirror, Tees Playgroup) - $4,000
• Youth Unlimited Central Alberta - $6,000
Council also approved 2024 surplus FCSS funds, on a one-time basis, to the following community organizations.
• Alix Mirror Wellness Supports Society - $10,000
• Bentley Community Services - $2,950
• Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) - $1,000
• Blackfalds Abbey Centre Camp Curious - $400
• Blackfalds FCSS – Seniors Programs $- 1,000
• BGC Wolf Creek Lacombe - $1,000
• Clive FCSS - $2,000
• Eckville & Area Children’s Playgroup - $1,000
• Eckville Recreation Board – Summer Camp - $1,000
• Friends of Mirror Library Society - $400
• Lacombe and District FCSS - $2,000
For more on how to access FCSS and community programs in the area,visit www.lacombecounty.com/en/living-here/family-and-community-supportservices.aspx.
