Social programs in Central Alberta received a $5.7-million boost from the Red Deer and District Family and Community Support Services on Monday.
Eighteen local agencies will receive funding over three years (2015, 2016 and 2017) for 21 projects designed to enhance social well-being and to prevent individuals and families from falling into crisis situations.
Among the recipients are the Circle of Red Deer Seniors Society for $278,000; the Red Deer Youth and Volunteer Centre ($464,370); Red Deer Family Service Bureau ($290,000); and Parkland Youth Homes Society ($153,190).
FCSS is funded through a 80/20 per cent cost-sharing partnership between the province and local governments or Métis settlements.
The funding was allocated after a six-month application process.
FCSS chairperson Kathy Sitter said there has been no provincial funding increase to FCSS funding since 2009 despite population increases, inflationary costs of service and increasing client need.
Sitter said the board had to make tough decisions for the upcoming three-year cycle. The board will meet with municipalities to discuss advocacy strategies to lobby for increased funding.
The Red Deer and District FCSS covers Red Deer, Red Deer County, Bowden, Delburne, Elnora and Penhold.