Urgent Appeal: Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre Seeks Counselling Funds

UPDATE: The Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre (CFEC) has urgently requested a renewal of the Community Action Initiative (CAI) Community Counselling Fund to maintain vital mental health services. In a letter dated December 15, 2023, addressed to key officials including B.C. Finance Minister Brenda Bailey and local representatives, CFEC emphasized the immediate need for stable, multi-year funding as the current allocation of $130,000 is set to expire this spring.

The CFEC highlighted that this funding is crucial for meeting the escalating mental health needs of the community. Without it, the organization could face significant cutbacks, directly affecting thousands who rely on low-barrier counselling services. The letter, co-authored by board co-chairpersons Saturn Zezza and Rob Diether, along with other key staff, states, “Community Counselling funding has enabled our organization to offer timely, trauma-informed, culturally responsive counselling services.”

The urgency of this request is amplified by the recent closure of West Fraser 100 Mile Lumber, which has heightened the demand for counselling services. CFEC anticipates a surge in cases related to depression, anxiety, and substance use as the community grapples with the implications of job loss. “We expect higher demand for individual counselling,” the letter warns, indicating that financial stress often leads to increased family conflict and domestic violence.

Currently, the CFEC supports 136 individuals and families, with an additional 59 participating in group services. The organization has noted a marked increase in requests for help from economically vulnerable populations. “Early, accessible intervention is critical during periods of transition,” the CFEC stated, stressing that timely support can prevent crises that require more intensive and costly interventions.

In response to the CFEC’s plea, MLA Lorne Doerkson expressed his support, stating he has written a letter to accompany the CFEC’s request to several ministries, including the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Community Services. “This is precisely the kind of thing that our communities, frankly, right through Cariboo Chilcotin, do need some extra support on,” Doerkson said.

Meanwhile, MP Todd Doherty is advocating for CFEC by drafting a letter to B.C. Premier David Eby to ensure continued support for the organization. Doherty emphasized the importance of CFEC’s work in the region, highlighting their role in bolstering community resilience amidst economic uncertainty.

As the District of 100 Mile House council held a meeting on January 13, the funding issue was notably not discussed, raising concerns about the urgency of the situation. The 100 Mile Free Press has reached out to Finance Minister Brenda Bailey for comment and will provide updates as they become available.

The future of mental health services in the Cariboo region hangs in the balance as the CFEC awaits a response to their critical funding request. The community is urged to stay informed and support the CFEC in their mission to provide essential counselling services during this pivotal moment.