Child and Family Resources
Bissell Centre’s Child and Family Resources offer a well-rounded array of services that complement each other to support expectant mothers, parents and families throughout the City of Edmonton.
Early Childhood Development Program
Early Childhood Development Program supports families with temporary childcare for newborns to children five years of age. This is an accredited centre allowing children to play and learn in a safe, supportive, educational environment, giving parents time to access other services, interview for a job or attend appointments. There is no charge for parents to use this service. Families may access childcare one day per week or on a more frequent, temporary basis if a parent has demonstrated participation in a training program, active job search or other need.
Assistance with accessing speech therapy and assessment services for children is provided. A resource library is also available.
- In 2009, 763 children from 489 families were provided with care
- 82% of parents whose children attended regularly reported that their family life is better
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“I have been able to use that time my child is in care and earn a little extra money, which benefits my family.” Early Childhood Program Parent
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Family Support Services
Bissell Centre Family Support Services provide information and resources to families working to raise healthy, happy children. Many families Bissell Centre serves are coping with issues associated with poverty, isolation and lack of extended family or other supports. Contact with Family Support Services workers can give parents an opportunity to talk about and work through issues of concern in their lives. The program offers parenting classes, Health-for-Two (pre-natal care), collective kitchen opportunities, advocacy services and referral information to enhance resiliency and social supports in families and community. Family Support Services staff delivering these services work closely with Early Childhood Development Program staff to support families. Often families are able to receive diapers, formula, and baby layettes when they are in financial crisis or distress.
- Provided services and advocacy 1,224 times in 2009
- 2,237 people received baby supplies in 2009
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“When we came to Canada, our clothing was inadequate and our money was depleted. Through Bissell, my family received food,clothing and household goods.” Child and Family Resources Service User |
Family Housing Worker
In partnership with Boyle Street Community Services, a housing worker is available to support women and families with housing needs.
- 19 families were housed in 2009
Immediate Support
An Intake Resource Worker is available daily to meet with community members who have immediate needs such as obtaining medical care, clothing and houseware vouchers, social assistance, and advocacy. On-site Alberta Works (SFI) and AADAC workers are also available.
- There were 14,850 Immediate Support visits in 2009
