Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) Background

The City of Grande Prairie has partnered with the Government of Alberta to deliver FCSS since 1966–67.

FCSS is an 80/20 funding partnership between the Government of Alberta and participating municipalities or Métis Settlements to develop locally driven preventionbased social initiatives that enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and communities.

FCSS receives its mandate from the Family and Community Support Services Act and the Family and Community Support Services Regulation. This partnership is based on a shared understanding that municipalities and Métis Settlements are in the best position to assess community needs, set priorities, and support individuals, families, and communities through preventative social programs and services.

The FCSS Act mandates an emphasis on prevention. As stated in the FCSS Regulation Section 2.1(1)(b). FCSS programs must do one or more of the following:

• Help people develop independence, strengthen coping skills, and become more resistant to crisis.

• Build capacity to meet our social needs.

• Support people in developing skills to have healthy relationships with others.

• Help individuals and communities assume responsibility for decisions and actions that affect them.

• Provide support that helps people participate in the community.1