The Archway Family Centre program marked the first-ever Family Resource Program (FRP) Week with a community breakfast celebration on Wednesday, October 21st, recognizing the vital role family resource programs play in supporting children, parents, and families.
Celebrated across British Columbia from October 19th to 23rd, FRP Week brought communities together in a coordinated province-wide effort to raise awareness of the many ways these programs strengthen families, promote healthy child development, and build more connected communities.
The breakfast event began with a land acknowledgement delivered by Rod Santiago, Archway CEO.
A client’s child showing a toy to Rod.
“This event is our opportunity to recognize and acknowledge that you, our caregivers, are incredible. The role you play in caring for your children is essential to the future of our communities. We are here to create a place where you, our caregivers, can thrive, where your children can flourish, and where tomorrow can be even better than today.”
“This event is our opportunity to recognize and acknowledge that you, our caregivers, are incredible. The role you play in caring for your children is essential to the future of our communities,” shared Rod.
” We are here to create a place where you, our caregivers, can thrive, where your children can flourish, and where tomorrow can be even better than today.”
Among those in attendance was Janine Rizzo, Director of Operations, Ministry of Children and Family Development.
The Archway Family Centre program has provided families with opportunities for connection, play, early learning, access to valuable community resources and support through various weekly drop-in sessions since 1998.
The impact of Family Resource Programs extends beyond the families they directly support. Through early intervention and preventative services, these programs strengthen family well-being, connect families with essential resources, and help address challenges before they escalate, while reducing pressure on health, education, and social service systems.
“Family Centre is our favourite place to drop in,” shared a program participant.
“It’s the only place where I feel like I can relax and let my guard down. I know that if I come here, I can have a mental break because I’m not doing everything on my own, it has been amazing for my mental health.”
Those interested in learning more about Family Resource Program Week can visit the Family Resource Programs of BC website and families looking for connection can visit the Family Centre website page.
Staff member, Cindy making pancakes.
“Family Centre is our favourite place to drop in. It’s the only place where I feel like I can relax and let my guard down. I know that if I come here, I can have a mental break because I’m not doing everything on my own, it has been amazing for my mental health.”