File photo.
To address growing community needs, Lacombe County is increasing funding for Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) by $30,000 for the 2025 fiscal year.
“As our communities grow, so do the challenges our residents face. This funding increase will allow us to respond proactively to community needs, especially for seniors who may not be aware of the support available to them,” said Barb Shepherd Lacombe County Reeve. “We’re committed to making these resources accessible and ensuring that all residents benefit from FCSS programs.”
After reviewing the 2024 year-end funding, the county determined that the FCSS program was underspent by approximately $22,750.
The surplus will be reallocated to meet the needs of local organizations whose funding requests for 2024 could not be fully met, to continue work across the county supporting residents.
“Supporting our communities has always been a priority for Lacombe County,” said Michael Minchin, Director of Corporate Services. “We recognize the importance of these programs in promoting well-being and are dedicated to strengthening the support systems that so many of our residents rely on.”
Lacombe County Council approved funding for the following community programs in 2025:
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Alix Family and Community Support Society - $1,500
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Alix Mirror Wellness Supports Society - $18,355
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Bentley Community Services - $13,690
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Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lacombe and District - $6,000
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Blackfalds Abbey Centre Camp Curious - $4,000
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Blackfalds FCSS – Seniors Programs - $4,000
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BGC Wolf Creek Lacombe - $2,500
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Eckville and Community Youth Society - $2,000
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Eckville Recreation Board – Summer Camp - $2,000
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Eckville & Area Children’s Playgroup - $2,500
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Friends of Mirror Library Society - $5,400
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Lacombe and District FCSS - $26,125
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Lacombe FCSS (Clive, Mirror, Tees Playgroup) - $4,000
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Youth Unlimited Central Alberta - $6,000
The funding total is $98,070.
Ongoing annual funding will depend on a yearly review of each program to ensure it is operational, is a valuable resource to the community, and sufficient funding is available.
Council approved the 2024 surplus FCSS funds, on a one-time basis, to the following community organizations:
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Alix Mirror Wellness Supports Society - $10,000
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Bentley Community Services - $2,950
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Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) - $1,000
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Blackfalds Abbey Centre Camp Curious - $400
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Blackfalds FCSS – Seniors Programs - $1,000
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BGC Wolf Creek Lacombe - $1,000
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Clive FCSS - $2,000
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Eckville & Area Children’s Playgroup - $1,000
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Eckville Recreation Board – Summer Camp - $1,000
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Friends of Mirror Library Society - $400
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Lacombe and District FCSS - $2,000
The surplus funding total is $22,750.
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