To the editor:
In the run-up to the May 14 provincial election, much will be debated about job-creation, balancing the budget, education and health care.
What about organizations that work with children and families in crisis, counsel families dealing with addiction, work with moms and dads to be the best parents possible and support those dealing with physical and mental challenges?
One area that needs to be included in policy talks at this time is support for community social services.
Who are these community social service providers and what do they do?
Many people believe that all such needs are provided directly by government departments - not so.
Many of the agencies that provide help when individuals and families are in need in the South Cariboo are not-for-profit organizations like the Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre (CFEC) and several others in our area.
Wherever there’s a need for help, these people are likely there, building stronger families and communities throughout the South Cariboo. Helping families and individuals before things go wrong is a great investment in the future of our community.
After that, it’s crisis management.
Most of us will need community services at some point in our lives. Let’s make sure they are still there when we turn to them.
Sheila Hart and Janice Silveira
Co-chairs CFEC board