BASIC NEEDS PROGRAM
The Basic Needs Program is a resource for families experiencing poverty to access clothing, diapers, formula, referrals and other essentials for raising a healthy family.
You can access this program through our Family Support Navigator. You can reach them at familysupport@bissellcentre.org or leave a message by calling 780-423-2285 ext. 133.
Family Supports offices are now located at Bissell West building, right above our Community Space, at 10527 96 Street.
To offer you everything you need for your family as easily as possible, formula and diapers are now available at Bissell Centre headquarters.
This means that families can easily access the support they require all in one place, plus you don’t have to worry about receiving and finding vouchers when you need them*
When you meet with your Family Support Navigator, let them know you need diapers and formula. Your Family Support Navigator will make sure you have what you need for your family.
*Vouchers will still be honoured by Bissell Thrift Shop locations until October 7, 2023.
About Family Support Services
The Family Support Services workers provide essential emergency and ongoing supports to help families living in poverty meet their daily basic needs, improve their quality of life, and provide their children with a brighter future within an outreach/home visitation support model. Supports can include advocacy, referrals, and enhancing the capacity of families to care for their children.
To enhance resiliency and social supports in families and the community, we offer the following:
- Health-for-Two (prenatal care)
- Goal setting
- Advocacy services and referral information
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.
“I feel I am not alone anymore, and I thought I would not make it after I left my partner, but here I am doing well with the support I got from the Health-for-Two worker.”
– Marilynn, Participant
FAMILY INTERVENTION SERVICES
Bissell Centre’s Family Intervention Service provides support to families who are referred to us by Children and Family Services. These supports aim to build family safety, strengthen capacity, deepen connections, and move toward greater stability, reunification, preservation, or permanency.
Our Approach
Services are delivered with the understanding that meaningful and sustainable progress occurs through consistent, respectful relationships. All support is trauma-informed and promotes safety, trust, collaboration, and empowerment.
Families have access to wraparound supports that are: culturally responsive, strength-based, trauma-informed, evidence based, anti-oppressive, FASD-informed, and focus on restorative justice.
Our Services
Family Support Workers provide in-home family and caregiver support, supported family time, and child and youth mentorship. This includes:
- Supporting visits
- Teaching, modelling and coaching effective parenting strategies
- Co-creating wellness plans
- Facilitating connection to culture
- Connecting to sharing circles, family support groups, and workshops
- Supporting children and youth in learning emotional regulation
- Connecting to community activities and resources
- Supporting youth navigating relationships, education, employment and the transition to adulthood
- And more
Family Support Workers walk alongside families as they work towards their goals.
Bissell- Family Intervention Services office is open by appointment only, located at:
Building 3, Unit 201
9452 51 Ave. NW, Edmonton
