Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre Seeks Renewal of Counselling Funds

The Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre (CFEC) has formally requested a renewal of the funding that supports its vital counselling services. In a letter dated December 15, 2023, the CFEC appealed to several key officials, including B.C. Finance Minister Brenda Bailey, Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Lorne Doerkson, and Cariboo-Prince George MP Todd Doherty, urging for the continuation of the Community Action Initiative (CAI) Community Counselling Fund.

The current funding, amounting to $130,000 annually, is set to expire in spring 2024. CFEC officials emphasized that without this financial support, they would be forced to significantly reduce their counselling services, which play a critical role in addressing the mental health needs of community members across their service area.

Impact of Funding on Counselling Services

In their letter, co-written by board co-chairpersons Saturn Zezza and Rob Diether, along with other senior staff, the CFEC highlighted the importance of the Community Counselling Fund. “Community Counselling funding has enabled our organization to offer timely, trauma-informed, culturally responsive counselling services that reduce barriers such as cost, long waitlists, lack of extended benefit coverage, and geographic isolation,” they wrote.

Currently, the CFEC provides services to 136 individuals and families, along with an additional 59 participants in group services. The demand for counselling has surged, particularly among economically vulnerable individuals, signaling a growing need for support in the region.

The closure of West Fraser 100 Mile Lumber has compounded these challenges, with CFEC predicting an increase in requests for individual counselling related to issues such as depression, anxiety, and substance use. The mental and social impacts of this closure are expected to be significant, affecting not only those directly employed by the mill but also the broader community.

Community Support and Advocacy

The CFEC board underscored that early intervention is crucial during transitional periods. “When people receive timely support, it reduces the likelihood that concerns escalate into crises requiring more intensive and costly interventions through Interior Health or the Ministry of Children and Family Development,” the letter stated.

While the District of 100 Mile House council did not address the funding issue during their meeting on January 13, 2024, MP Todd Doherty’s office has indicated they are advocating for the CFEC’s needs by communicating with B.C. Premier David Eby. Doerkson has also expressed his concern, stating he has written a letter of support for the CFEC and plans to forward it to other relevant ministries, including the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty, the Minister of Health, and the Minister of Community Services.

“This is precisely the kind of support our communities need, especially in light of challenges like the mill closure, which amplifies the need for accessible mental health services,” Doerkson remarked.

The CFEC’s call for funding renewal highlights the essential role that community organizations play in maintaining mental health and well-being. As advocacy efforts continue, the outcome will determine the future of counselling services in the region and their impact on thousands of residents reliant on these vital resources.

The 100 Mile Free Press has reached out to Minister Brenda Bailey’s office for a response and will provide updates as they become available.