The City of Grande Prairie is offering a free Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) 101 information session for local organizations to build an understanding of FCSS funding and prevention focused programming ahead of the 2027 – 2029 FCSS funding cycle. 

Taking place virtually on Monday, July 6, from 1 to 2:30 p.m., the session will provide an introductory overview of FCSS funding, including its purpose, provincial prevention priorities and the types of programs and activities that are eligible for funding.

"Community organizations play an important role in supporting the well-being of residents," said City of Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton. "FCSS funding helps make that work possible by supporting prevention-focused programs that connect people to supports, build community belonging and resilience and promote well-being before challenges become crises. The City looks forward to hosting this information session to help organizations better understand FCSS priorities and develop initiatives that make a positive impact in our community."

Participants will learn:

• What FCSS funding is and how it is intended to strengthen individuals, families and communities before the challenges become crises. 
• The FCSS definition of prevention and what preventative programming means. 
• An overview of the provincial FCSS prevention priorities. 
• Examples of eligible and ineligible activities. 
• Funding limitations, including why FCSS funding cannot duplicate or replace services funded by other government ministries. 

The session is recommended for non-profit and community organizations, organizations new to FCSS funding, current FCSS-funded organizations and groups interested in learning more about prevention-focused programming and future funding opportunities. Registration is required. To register, visit cityofgp.com/events.