Family and Children’s Services of Renfrew County highlights some of its specialized services available during this challenging time
Here to help with 35 programs and services supporting children, youth and adults in Renfrew County.
PEMBROKE - Providing one-on-one support to individuals with developmental disabilities, supporting families with grocery bundle deliveries, making in-person visits to families to assess well-being and safety, and providing free and fun activities to foster social inclusion are just a few of the programs and services available from Family and Children’s Services of Renfrew County (FCS).
In fact, FCS currently offers 35 programs and services to children, youth, families and adults in Renfrew County, and this includes new programs and services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Many know FCS’s mandate to ensure the safety and well-being of children and youth, but might be surprised to learn that we provide developmental services for children, youth and adults, early years developmental support, and even Kumon math and reading programs,” said Kathy Davis, Executive Director, FCS.
“We’re so proud of how the community, and our staff and teams have responded to the pandemic in a creative and supportive way. We’ve introduced a number of new programs as well as virtual services, and as a service-focused organization, one of the most important tasks is ensuring families, youth, children and adults are aware these services are available and how they can access them.”
FCS also continues to operate its programs and services with a focus on safe in-person delivery.
“We know how challenging the pandemic, lockdowns, and changing restrictions have been for families,” added Davis. “We want the community to know what help is available, that FCS is an essential service and will continue to be available – just give us a call. We also hope community members can help direct others to do the same.”
Here are just a few of the specialized programs and services available at Family and Children’s Services of Renfrew County. Community members interested in learning more are encouraged to call FCS at 613-735-6866.
Experience & Engagement Program for Youth
In response to grant funding provided by the Employment & Social Development Canada’s COVID-19 Emergency Community Support Fund and distributed by United Way Ontario East, FCS is hosting free, fun and educational workshops and activities for youth across Renfrew County.
The activities, delivered virtually and in-person when possible, allow youth to connect with their peers in a safe way.
The program is also able to support many small businesses across Renfrew County through the facilitation of the activities.
Renfrew County Safe Shelter for Youth
Youth ages 16 to 21 who may be at risk or homeless can receive immediate support from Renfrew County Safe Shelter for Youth.
The program assists youth with securing temporary shelter and basic needs as the Safe Shelter for Youth Coordinator works with youth to help connect them with the services and support they need to live safely and achieve their goals.
The program’s supporting partners include Columbus House Pembroke, Phoenix Centre for Children and Families, and the United Way Ontario East.
Since the pandemic, additional COVID-19 funding provided by the County of Renfrew has helped the program meet an increase in shelter costs and youth support.
Virtual Kumon Math & Reading Program
Although Kumon Math and Reading Centres in Pembroke, Petawawa and Renfrew currently remain closed to in-person learning, the centre instructors have been supporting students virtually.
Fortunately, Kumon’s independent learning model means students have been able to continue advancing in their math and/or reading at-home.
The program is always accepting new students and starts at age 3+. A one-on-one orientation with the Kumon instructor will assess the student’s math or reading level and give parents an opportunity to learn about the impact Kumon can make and address any questions they may have.
This free orientation can be booked easily online by visiting www.Kumon.com.
Early Years Development Support and Learning
FCS offers a range of programs and services to support the early developmental years for children. Its’ Infant and Child Development program offers developmental screening, information regarding infant and child development and specialized services and community resources.
Furthermore, its Jubilee Place Centre and Pembroke and North Renfrew EarlyON Child and Family centres offer educational programming for families with young children. You can visit their Facebook sites to participate in virtual programming and register for take-home activity kits to foster safe learning at home.
Support for Dads Too
FCS advocates for fathers and the important role they play in the lives of their families and children. This includes helping dads get involved in prenatal and early years development programs and support through education, counselling and referrals to services.
In partnership with Bernadette McCann House, FCS also facilitates the Caring Dads program to ensure the safety and well-being of the children in their lives.
Family Grocery Bundles
Thanks to COVID-19 relief funding provided through the County of Renfrew, FCS has been able to offer families using services, free grocery bundles and delivery.
The bundles include full meal-making essentials, including fresh meats, fruit and vegetables as well as non-perishable items and other important needs, including diapers and formula where needed.
About Family and Children’s Services of Renfrew County:
Family and Children’s Services of Renfrew County is a multiservice agency, helping families and communities in Renfrew County protect and support the development and well-being of children, youth and adults.
We do this through integrated services, prevention and social inclusion, and with a focus on our commitments to Equity, Diversity and Inclusivity, French Language Services and working alongside Indigenous Communities. For more information on programs or services, how to support and become involved, or if you have concerns regarding a child or youth’s well-being, please contact us at 613-735-6866 or 1-800- 267-5878. You can visit our website at www.fcsrenfrew.on.ca.
