Pathways | Family Services

Family Services - Vancouver

Child Services, Family / Parenting, Indigenous Services, and Social / Recreational

Provided by Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society (VAFCS)

Provides parent/child activities, skill building, guidance and support for families

The following services are offered to help indigenous families:

- Family Support Program: A comprehensive program that offers a range of services to help families build stronger, healthier relationships. One of the key services offered by the program is parenting support, which is designed to provide parents with the skills and knowledge they need to raise healthy, happy children. This support includes one-on-one counselling, group sessions, and workshops that cover a range of topics such as effective communication, positive discipline, and child development. In addition to parenting support, the Family Support Program provides counselling services to families dealing with substance or mental health issues.

- Aboriginal Head Start Program (AHS): a vital program that provides full-time childcare for Indigenous children ages 3-5 years old. The program offers a wide range of services that are designed to enhance the health, social, cultural and educational development of Indigenous children. One of the primary objectives of the AHS program is to provide Indigenous children with a strong foundation in their cultural teachings. The program offers cultural teachings that include language and cultural activities that are rooted in the traditions and beliefs of Indigenous communities.

- Indigenous HIPPY: a program offered by the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society (VAFCS) that helps parents of Indigenous children aged 3-5 teach their children the skills and habits they need to be ready for school. Through weekly home visits, HIPPY provides parents with activity packets that are easy to use and designed to help their children develop essential skills. The HIPPY program at VAFCS is specifically tailored to Indigenous families, with cultural teachings and activities that reflect Indigenous culture and traditions.

- Jordan's Principle Program: Provides vital services and supports to Indigenous children with complex medical needs or disabilities. The program ensures that all Indigenous children can access the medical, social, and educational services they need regardless of where they live in Canada or their family's financial situation. This includes funding for equipment, therapies, and other specialized services that may not be covered by existing programs.

- Summer Camp Program an exciting and engaging program for Indigenous youth ages 6-12. This program provides a fun and safe environment for participants to connect with their culture and community, while participating in a variety of activities such as outdoor games, crafts, cultural workshops, and traditional teachings.

604-423-6046

Public email: info@vafcs.org

Website: https://vafcs.org/programs

Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society - 1660 East Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia

Service is available in English.

Cost: No cost