The Castlegar and District Community Services Society (CDCSS) will be able to provide extra funding to parenting groups, men’s groups, learning resources for families and a reprint of the seniors’ guide, made possible from generous donations in November.
Approximately $7,600 was raised during the month’s appeal, which involved volunteers stuffing 5,000 letters in envelopes and mailing them to addresses in Castlegar and Robson.
“Thanks to the community’s generosity, we will be able to move forward with new projects, or upgrades to existing ones,” CDCSS board chair Roberta Hamilton said.
The parenting groups will offer workshops and support groups addressing parents’ needs, including hard-to-handle adolescent boys, impacts of separation, divorce and blended families.
Therapeutic supports for men will use public education and community development, breaking down social barriers so that men are more comfortable accessing services and subsidized professional counselling.
Learning resources for families will provide books or DVDs for families that most need help, especially when there are long waits for in-person assistance.
The senior’s guide, last printed in 2008, will be updated and redistributed throughout the community.
“I want to thank our donors and our volunteers,” Hamilton said. “I would also encourage donors and others in the community to join our Society.”
To become a member (which costs $5 per calendar year) or donate, drop in to the office at 1007 2nd St., call 365-2104 or e-mail cdcss@telus.net