SOCIAL SERVICES NEWS

News, updates, and stories about social care in BC

Unveiling the latest developments in social services

June 28, 2024

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Table of contents

• Poll results
• Homelessness & housing
• Reconciliation book club
• Reconciliation
• Training opportunities
• Communities & families
• Highlights
• Children & youth
• Career opportunities
• Health & mental health
• Good news

Poll results

Firstly, the Federation staff thank everyone who took the time to vote in our polls. We are committed to transparency and open communication, and your insights and feedback are of the utmost importance to us. The results are in, and 74.1 per cent of you voted for the “once” option. So, starting next week (July 1, 2024), we’ll begin sending the newsletter once a week on Thursdays. We thank you for your active participation and encourage you to continue sharing your thoughts. If you have any questions or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to contact us by email at giovani@fcssbc.ca.

Homelessness & housing

Most cities trailing behind B.C. housing targets | CTV News

The province of British Columbia has set housing targets for several municipalities, but there is a pressing need for most to catch up on their goals. Some cities, such as Victoria and Port Moody, have shown significant progress, while others, including Delta, Oak Bay, and West Vancouver, are making less progress than expected. The province has announced new five-year housing targets for ten more municipalities and plans to hand out targets to 10 additional cities this summer.

Resources:

• More than 4,000 homes built for people, thousands more on the way through housing targets | BC Gov News
• BC sets Kelowna’s 5-year housing target at 8,774 units | Kelowna Now
• BC Coalition for Safe and Sustainable Supportive Housing vocalizing need for low barrier improvements | CFJC Today Kamloops
• Chilliwack, B.C., attracts families seeking more affordable way of life | CBC
• Campers forced from Nelson City Hall after 3-month housing protest | Creston Valley Advance
• Province wants Kelowna to build nearly 9k new homes in five years | Vernon Morning Star
• Fruitvale names affordable housing project | Trail Times
• Vancouver passes two significant actions to promote diverse housing and transit-friendly communities | City of Vancouver
• Infill ASAP: City introduces program to accelerate supply and permitting | City of Kelowna
• RV residents in central Vancouver Island worry over bylaw changes | CBC

Reconciliation book club

Telling Truth: Seven Conversations about Indigenous Life in Canada

The Federation’s Reconciliation Book Club, designed to be inclusive and accessible for all staff in member organizations, is a key resource for increasing knowledge of reconciliation issues. Book Club members meet regularly to discuss a new book, and Federation staff ensure that the discussions are enriched with supplementary materials, including discussion questions, additional readings, and author and publisher information.

We invite you to join us for the next meeting of the Reconciliation Book Club on August 28, 2024. The book we will be discussing is “Telling Truth: Seven Conversations about Indigenous Life in Canada” by Michelle Good. Don’t miss this chance to be part of the discussion. Sign up for the book club here: https://fcssbc.ca/bookclub/

Reconciliation

Christi Belcourt commemorated through a stamp in her likeness | APTN News

On National Indigenous Peoples Day 2024, Canada Post honoured Métis artist Christi Belcourt by unveiling a stamp featuring her at the Wabano Centre Aboriginal Health in Ottawa. The event celebrated Belcourt’s contributions as an artist, activist, and environmentalist known for her floral paintings inspired by Métis beadwork. Belcourt’s stamp is part of a series recognizing Indigenous leaders. Belcourt emphasized the importance of community and advocacy through art. Her works are showcased across North America, and she has a significant presence in Ottawa with a stained-glass window in Parliament Hill. The event included deeply emotional tributes from friends and Elders, underscoring the profound impact Belcourt has had on those around her.

Related:

• Artist reveals TOAD-ally cool new mural on Fairy Island | CFNR Network
• Self-government comes for B.C. First Nation in proposed treaty | CTV News
• Overlapping First Nations claims complicate big move on treaty in northwestern B.C. | Global News
• First Nations, Ottawa, B.C., announce $335M for protection off Great Bear coast | Vernon Matters
• Cowichan Tribes now fully responsible for child welfare services | CBC News
• Haisla Nation and Pembina forge ahead with Indigenous-led Cedar LNG project in northern B.C. | The Globe and Mail
• First Nations say gondola delay by B.C. ‘amounts to disrespect’ | Vernon Morning Star
• PRRD addresses B.C. Ministry’s lack of communication with First Nations | Energetic City
• ‘Heart of the community’: Daylu Dena Council celebrates new building in Lower Post, B.C. | CBC News
• First Nation, Catholic Church agree on residential school truths | CBC News

Training opportunities

• My Tween and Me Program Facilitator Training (Sep. 11, 2024) | BC Council for Families
• Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Facilitator Training (Oct. 15, 2024) | BC Council for Families
• Mothers Mental Health Toolkit Training (Nov. 19, 2024) | BC Council for Families
• Integrated Strategies for Home Visitors Training (Nov. 28, 2024) | BC Council for Families
• Risk Management for Home Visitors (Dec. 09, 2024) | BC Council for Families

Communities & families

Boosted BC Family Benefit cheques on the way to thousands more families | BC Gov News

The Government of British Columbia is increasing the BC Family Benefit payments in response to rising inflation-related living expenses. This increase will provide financial relief to low- and middle-income families, with about 340,000 families set to receive the benefit through monthly deposits or mailed cheques starting mid-July. The one-year bonus added to the BC Family Benefit payments will result in an average increase of $445 compared to last year. The Province is also taking additional actions to help residents cope with the cost of living, including providing a fourth ICBC rebate, keeping hydro rates low, and offering free prescription birth control and transit for kids. Furthermore, the BC Benefits Connector has been launched as a one-stop online resource to help people access government benefits and programs. It’s important to note that the Province will not contact people by text message regarding tax credits.

Related:

• Okanagan seniors take part in ‘tin cup’ movement for second time in 2024 | Global News
• 11 people died from heat in 2023, BC Coroners Service says on anniversary of 2021 heat dome | City News
• Canada’s oldest age group is also its fastest-growing | CBC News
• High-speed internet access now available in Lach Klan | BC Gov News
• Lawyers looking for thousands of families owed money by Veterans Affairs | CTV News
• Why it’ll be a good thing to see more female MLAs in B.C.’s legislature | New West Record
• Women strike outside Nanaimo Court House to bring awareness about women’s rights | CHLY 101.7FM
• Addiction recovery beds for women set to double from 6 to 12 on Vancouver Island | Chek News
• B.C. trans teacher files human rights complaint over online hate campaign | Vernon Morning Star
• Port Coquitlam families hold rally for school to be rebuilt after fire | CTV News

Highlights

Province-wide Community-to-Community Forum | Union of BC Municipalities

UBCM and First Nations Leadership Council are co-hosting a Province-wide Community-to-Community Forum on September 16, 2024, at the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel, 900 Canada Place Way, Vancouver. First Nation and local government leaders and senior staff are invited to gather for a day of dialogue focusing on building relations, advancing reconciliation, and exploring ways to work together. This important event will foster collaboration and deepen understanding toward a more inclusive future for all communities across BC.

Related:

• PTSD Awareness Day (June 27)

Children & youth

YouthSpeak 2023 | Federation of BC Youth in Care Networks

A report card on the wellbeing of youth in care in BC. For service providers and decision-makers, YouthSpeaks is an opportunity to listen to young people in and from government care and make informed decisions by acting on their ideas and insight. For young people, YouthSpeaks provides a space to speak out and share about their experiences in care. As both an engagement opportunity and a data collection method, YouthSpeaks show young people that their experiences, opinions, and ideas matter, and that their voice is powerful.

Related:

• Compensation support needed for child welfare survivors | APTN News
• Judge rules against dad trying to stop child’s HPV vaccination | CBC News
• Newcomers, youth hit hardest as job market cools: Bank of Canada’s Macklem | Global News
• 67-space child care centre, Child and Youth Excellence Hub break ground in Mission Monday | Fraser Valley Today
• Helping communities prevent and reduce substance use-related harms among youth | Government of Canada
• Funding for new classroom space at Old Yale Road, William Watson and Latimer Road elementary schools announced | Surrey Schools
• British Columbia – New classrooms for elementary students coming to Comox Valley | Education News Canada
• Students, staff recovering after serious bus crash in B.C.’s Cariboo region | CBC
• Drag classes at summer camps help youth explore their identity | UBC News
• Student learning and growth prioritized in School District 60’s strategic vision | Energetic City

Career opportunities

The Federation actively works to help our members recruit and retain skilled staff. Click here to check the current opportunities.

Health & mental health

BC NDP touts 30-point plan to expand health-care services in Surrey | Global News

The BC NDP government has announced a 30-point plan to expand health-care services in Surrey before the provincial election. Health Minister Adrian Dix provided updates on the progress, including adding new positions at Surrey Memorial Hospital and completing 14 out of the 30 planned actions. The initiatives aimed to meet the residents’ health-care needs and address the rapid growth of Surrey, a key area in the upcoming election. Additionally, the government plans to add more prefabricated classroom spaces to address the increasing demand for education in the city.

Related:

• B.C. ignores evidence with its health decisions | Victoria Times Colonist
• Canadians in crisis: The compelling case for more mental health benefits | The Globe and Mail
• Mental Health Misinformation and Pseudoscience Are Rampant | Psychology Today Canada
• New supports for integrating a nurse into family practice | FPSC
• Meet the B.C. man who started Canada’s first vitiligo support group | CTV News

Good news

If you have any feel-good, weird, fascinating or amusing stories you’d like to see included in this section, send them our way to giovani@fcssbc.ca!

• Jonathan David lifts Canada over Peru for 1st-ever win at Copa America | CBC Sports
• A brain implant reduced this boy’s epilepsy seizures by 80%. And he charges it with headphones | CBC Radio
• Meet two Sask. dancers who are spreading the joy of Métis jigging | CBC News

Note

The articles in Federation newsletters are for informational purposes and do not relate to the Federation’s advocacy work. We want our membership to stay informed of news relevant to our sector; the inclusion of a story is not an endorsement.

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By Zahra Esmail, CEO of Vantage Point, and Kishone Roy, Executive Director of the Federation of Community Social Services

Non-Profit North, an event co-hosted by Vantage Point and the Federation of Community Social Services of BC (FCSSBC), was a significant milestone for the community social services sector in Northern British Columbia. This gathering marked a much-needed return to in-person events post-COVID-19, aimed at fostering connections, sharing knowledge, and addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by community social services agencies in this region. 

A shared vision for community engagement 

At the heart of Non-Profit North was a shared vision between Vantage Point and The Federation: to engage deeply with community social services agencies, listen to their experiences, and facilitate meaningful connections among leaders and changemakers. This event was a testament to the strong sense of community and shared purpose that exists among organizations in Northern BC, as we all navigate a landscape filled with distinct challenges. By coming together, we sought to harness collective efforts and knowledge sharing to better serve the sector and the communities it supports. 

Highlights of the event 

One of the most memorable moments was Dr. Dustin Louie’s keynote address. As a First Nations scholar from Nee Tahi Buhn and Nadleh Whut’en, Dr. Louie brought unique insights into transformative reconciliation, enriching the discourse with perspectives deeply rooted in local knowledge and experience. 

Additionally, the session co-led by Prairie Chiu, Vantage Point’s Director of Engagement and Advocacy, and Zahra Esmail, provided a comprehensive overview of the 2024 State of BC’s Non-Profit Sector Survey and ongoing initiatives to convene a BC Non-Profit Network. This session sparked essential discussions about regional equity and advocacy opportunities, which are crucial for advancing the sector’s collective goals. 

Chiu and Esmail also facilitated a session on Board Diversity & Inclusion, addressing critical issues that impact the effectiveness and representativeness of non-profit boards. The engagement and enthusiasm of participants highlighted the sector’s commitment to these values. 

The importance of in-person gatherings 

The palpable enthusiasm and active participation from attendees at Non-Profit North were truly inspiring. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to meet leaders from across Northern BC, to build stronger relationships, and to gain a deeper understanding of the regional nuances affecting local community social services agencies. Their presence and engagement are invaluable as we continue to build trust and reciprocity with the sector in Northern BC. 

Personal reflections from Zahra Esmail 

On a personal note, Non-Profit North was a profoundly enriching experience for me. The opportunity to reconnect with the vibrant communities in Northern BC was both professionally rewarding and personally fulfilling. I was particularly moved by the openness and resilience of the non-profit leaders I met. Their stories of perseverance in the face of unique regional challenges reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration and shared learning…and the strength of our mighty sector! 

Personal reflections from Kishone Roy 

For me, the highlight was the opportunity to connect with the diverse community of Prince George and the surrounding areas. The transformation of the region’s diversity over my lifetime has been remarkable, and it was heartening to see the vibrant mix of people and cultures. The moments of connection and reflection underscored the importance of in-person engagement, which had been sorely missed during the pandemic years. 

Looking ahead: sustaining momentum 

As we reflect on the success of Non-Profit North, we are inspired by the impact it has had on the community social services sector in Northern BC. The momentum generated by this event has sparked new collaborations, deepened relationships, and developed a sense of shared purpose. Our commitment to being curious learners and building relationships of trust will guide our efforts as we move forward. We are excited about the journey ahead, confident that together, we can work towards a more connected, cohesive, and thriving non-profit sector.

Building an annual tradition 

Looking ahead, we aim to establish Non-Profit North as an annual gathering in Prince George. This will involve discussions with partners, boards, and members, but the enthusiasm and success of this year’s event will give us confidence in the future. We eagerly anticipate the next steps and the ongoing journey of collaboration and growth within the community social services sector in Northern BC. 

In conclusion, Non-Profit North was more than just an event; it was a testament to the power of coming together, sharing knowledge, and building a stronger community. As we continue to reflect on the insights gained and the connections made, we are inspired and motivated to keep working towards a vibrant and thriving community social services sector in Northern BC. 

SOCIAL SERVICES NEWS

News, updates, and stories about social care in BC

Unveiling the latest developments in social services

June 18, 2024

Subscribe HERE

Table of contents

• National Day for Indigenous People
• Reconciliation
• Training opportunities
• Communities & families
• Highlights
• Homelessness & housing
• Health & mental health
• Children & youth
• Toxic drugs
• Good news

National Day for Indigenous People (June 21)

National Indigenous Peoples Day | Canada

National Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated on or around June 21 to honour the culture and heritage of Indigenous groups. It was announced in 1996 by then Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc, and was intended to celebrate the contributions of Indigenous Peoples. The day is part of the Celebrate Canada program and is supported by the Government of Canada through funding opportunities for community celebratory events.

Resources:

• Celebrate Indigenous stories and experiences with CBC | CBC News
• Indigenous Tourism BC
• National Indigenous Peoples Day | Royal Roads University
• National Indigenous Peoples Day – Office for Aboriginal Peoples | Simon Fraser University
• Events Calendar | Britannia Centre
• Indian Residential School Survivors Society
• BC Aboriginal Child Care Society
• Indspire announces 2024 Indspire Awards broadcast and Indigenous Geographic partnership | Indspire

Reconciliation

3rd annual march for missing and murdered Indigenous men, boys and 2S+ | CTV News

In Vancouver, the third annual march for missing and murdered Indigenous men, boys, and two-spirit-plus people took place, drawing emotional scenes as attendees came together to remember their loved ones who never came home. Some attendees travelled from other parts of the country to show their support. The event was organized by Curtis Ahenakew, inspired by the tragic death of his friend Neil Stonechild. The march aimed to bring awareness to missing and murdered Indigenous men and boys, emphasizing the importance of their stories. The event featured a symbolic canoe arrival carrying sweetgrass, signifying medicine and healing.

Related:

• First Nations coast guard units fill critical response gap | Victoria Times Colonist
• Boarding home survivors awaiting compensation now press for federal apology | CBC News
• Hospital makes a promise to Indigenous communities | Victoria Times Colonist
• Mental health solutions by and for Indigenous youth | CBC
• Lheidli T’enneh musician records children’s songs in her ancestral languages | CBC News
• Student group helps guide Indigenous education in Chilliwack | CBC News
• Progress too slow on Truth and Reconciliation calls to action, advocates say | Global News
• Indigenous communities honour MMIBM | CTV News
• Large new B.C. provincial park created with First Nations | The Narwhal
• Continuing Tradition: The 2024 Sinixt Canoe Journey and Salmon Prayer | The Nelson Daily

Training opportunities

• My Tween and Me Program Facilitator Training (Sep. 11, 2024) | BC Council for Families
• Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Facilitator Training (Oct. 15, 2024) | BC Council for Families
• Mothers Mental Health Toolkit Training (Nov. 19, 2024) | BC Council for Families
• Integrated Strategies for Home Visitors Training (Nov. 28, 2024) | BC Council for Families
• Risk Management for Home Visitors (Dec. 09, 2024) | BC Council for Families

Communities & families

Francophone Community Health Centre Increases Access to primary care | BC Gov News

A new francophone community health centre is set to open in British Columbia in October 2024, aimed at providing accessible primary care services to the growing French-speaking community in the region. With all patient-facing staff fluent in French and English, the centre will offer culturally appropriate care and better preventative and continuity of care. The clinic will connect 4,400 people to longitudinal primary care by 2029. This initiative is a partnership between RésoSanté, the Ministry of Health, and Vancouver Coastal Health, with significant funding from the Province to support its establishment.

Related:

• Construction almost complete on new B.C. bridge in wake of 2021 flooding | Global News
• B.C.’s drought: What exactly are droughts and what causes them? | Castanet
• Extremist Diagolon ‘Terror Tour’ Is Coming to Vancouver | The Tyee
• North Okanagan charities receive $332,000 boost from Community Foundation Grants | Vernon Morning Star
• As drug costs soar, seniors say they’re being priced out of basic pain management | CBC
• Rough rollout out for feds new dental care plan in Kamloops, Okanagan | iNFOnews
• Inside a women’s recovery centre in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside | CBC
• B.C. Seniors Advocate and Crime Stoppers say reporting elder abuse is essential – even if you do it anonymously | Seniors Advocate

Highlights

World Refugee Day (June 20) | UNHCR

World Refugee Day is an international day designated by the United Nations to honour refugees around the globe. It falls on 20 June and celebrates the strength and courage of people forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution. The day is essential as it shines a light on refugees’ rights, needs, and dreams, helping to mobilize political will and resources. World Refugee Day was first held globally on 20 June 2001, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees. The day is marked by various events in many countries around the globe to support refugees, involving refugees themselves, government officials, host communities, companies, celebrities, school children, and the general public.

Related:

• FSGV Benefit Wayfinder 2024 | FCSSBC

Homelessness & housing

‘We do not have housing’: Growing downtown encampment highlights homelessness problem in Simcoe | Penticton Herald

The downtown encampment in Simcoe has brought attention to the homelessness problem in the area. The rising cost of housing, lack of health care and addiction treatment, and poverty are contributing factors. The average price of a home is high, and the rental vacancy rate is low. The county faces a housing shortage and long wait times for rent-geared-to-income housing. The homelessness prevention team has been helping households with various services, and an eviction prevention program has assisted many. The county has not provided the tents and supplies at the encampment. Efforts are being made to connect encampment inhabitants with the services they need. Local organizations such as Church Out Serving, St. Leonard’s, the Salvation Army, and food banks are suggested for donations. Legal challenges have prevented the immediate removal of the encampment, and there are concerns about drug use and violence near the area. The county is seeking help from the provincial government to address the affordable housing problem, determine housing costs, and support homeless individuals.

Related:

• $30K fine, 1-year suspension for property manager: BCFSA | CTV News
• Nanaimo supportive housing facility fire displaces 57 | Victoria Times Colonist
• Kamloops set to lose both drop-in centres for homeless population on same day next month | Castanet
• Toronto, Vancouver among most expensive places to buy a home: global study | CTV News
• Hoping to buy your first home? It’s getting harder to qualify without help from parents | CBC
• 20 new homesless shelter beds to open in Castlegar | Castlegar Source
• New policy could see more family units in Victoria complexes | Victoria Times Colonist
• Victoria puts up $1.8M in funding for new ‘hub’ to help homeless | Global News
• Does solving B.C.’s housing crisis mean home values need to come down? | CTV News
• Vancouver housing: Shaughnessy densification up for council debate | CTV News

Health & mental health

Climate change disasters require plans for dialysis patients, experts say | Creston Valley Advance

When severe flooding hit southern British Columbia in November 2021, dialysis patients, including Mitchell Dyck, faced life-threatening challenges as roads were impassable, requiring helicopter transport to receive treatment. Experts emphasize the need for robust emergency plans for dialysis patients due to increasing climate-related disasters. Dr. Shaifali Sandal is working on a national project to enhance disaster management for kidney patients, inspired by successful strategies from other countries. BC Renal, noted for its effective emergency response, serves as a model with coordinated plans, including deploying specialized nurses and maintaining a comprehensive patient information registry. These efforts aim to ensure uninterrupted care for dialysis patients during emergencies.

Related:

• Lost in Canada’s Health-Care Wonderland | The Tyee
• BC United’s Kevin Falcon explains healthcare position | Times Chronicle
• UBC researchers launch new website focused on men’s mental health | Vernon Morning Star
• Island Health launches same-day counselling for mental health in Victoria | Chek News
• Grades 6 & 9 Immunization | Interior Health
• New health and safety program for community physicians | Doctors of BC
• Policy that forced patients to switch to cheaper medications saved B.C. $730-million, report says | The Globe and Mail
• Writer documents adventures with health-care system | Victoria Times Colonist
• Vancouver Island University gives Dr. Bonnie Henry honorary doctorate | Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News
• Dawson Creek urges province to fast-track credentialing for international health care workers | Energetic City

Children & youth

B.C. schools need massive investment for repairs: trustees | City News

According to a report from B.C.’s School Trustees Association, B.C.’s public schools require almost $9 billion in repairs and upgrades over the next five years. The report emphasizes the impact of decades of underfunding on the quality of education and student well-being. It highlights the need for investment in climate adaptation and addressing population growth and overcrowding. The recommendations include immediate increased capital funding, implementing new technologies, and modernizing school area standards to meet educational needs. Despite some progress, a significant shortfall in public school capital funding persists.

Related:

• Keeping children safe on social media: What parents should know to protect their kids | Victoria Times Colonist
• Oral immunotherapy for treatment of food allergy in infants and preschoolers | CMAJ
• Harm caused by Kelowna social worker Robert Riley Saunders ‘far and wide-reaching’ says lawyer | Castanet
• B.C. Cystic Fibrosis Grant for Medications & Travel | PHSA
• Pride swells in the Park in Armstrong | Vernon Morning Star
• As B.C. prepares to teach Holocaust curriculum, concerns arise over divisions in teachers’ union | The Globe and Mail
• Updated Restrictions for Cell Phones and Digital Devices | Burnaby Schools
• South Okanagan businesses collaborate to fill a funding gap for children needing speech therapy | Castanet
• ChildcareBC centre slated to open in Cawston this fall | Castanet
• Vancouver schools: A third of teachers considering quitting, union says | CTV News

Toxic drugs

Island Health issues drug poisoning advisories for 2 Vancouver Island communities | Chek News

Island Health has issued drug poisoning advisories for the communities of Cowichan and Campbell River on Vancouver Island. The advisories warn of increasing drug poisonings and recommend getting drugs checked, carrying naloxone, and visiting local overdose prevention sites. Island Health also advises individuals to avoid using substances alone, to stagger use with a friend, and to start with a low dose. For more information, visit the Island Health website for local substance use harm reduction services.

Related:

• B.C. study argues for global basic income, despite opposition | Vernon Morning Star
• Cannabis to Be Reclassified as a Schedule III Drug | Psychology Today Canada
• Voices of the toxic drug crisis: Cheryl’s Story | Interior Health
• Kamloops on track for deadliest year of overdose crisis | Castanet

Good news

If you have any feel-good, weird, fascinating or amusing stories you’d like to see included in this section, send them our way to giovani@fcssbc.ca!

• Trading scrubs for songbooks. Moncton health-care workers form hospital choir | CBC News
• B.C. man ascends treacherous Grouse Grind a record 5,000 times | CBC News
• A woman undergoing chemotherapy gets a special message from a stranger | NPR

Note

The articles in Federation newsletters are for informational purposes and do not relate to the Federation’s advocacy work. We want our membership to stay informed of news relevant to our sector; the inclusion of a story is not an endorsement.

Subscribe HERE

More urgent social investments will deliver better health outcomes at lower cost

by Dr. Paul Kershaw
Founder, Generation Squeeze and Get Well Canada
UBC School of Population and Public Health

Charting a course to better health and greater affordability

The Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) has updated its Third-Party Accreditation of Contracted Community Social Service Providers Policy in 2024. The policy requires that Service Providers receiving $500,000 or more in annual funding from MCFD and/or Community Living British Columbia be accredited. The update aims to strengthen MCFD’s Accreditation program and support MCFD-funded Service Providers by providing more clarity on roles and responsibilities, oversight and monitoring measures, and potential consequences of not achieving accreditation. The updated policy also addresses the complexity of MCFD’s contracts with Service Providers that operate across different geographical areas and for different accredited programs. Compliance with the accreditation policy will be specified in existing and future contracts.

Communique Accreditation Policy Update June 2024