LOCAL FCSS INVESTMENT GOALS
From the Community Supports and Services Survey and the FCSS Community Engagement Sessions , five L ocal FCSS Investment Goals emerged to help guide funding decisions and program development in Grande Prairie for 2027 -2029 To address community needs, it is recommended that local FCSS funded activities help accomplish one or more of the following:
1. Connect Individuals and Families to Supports
Enhance awareness and access to community programs and services, and support individuals and families in navigating available resources, including those that address basic needs.
2. Build Community Belonging & Resilience
Foster belonging and resilience by supporting inclusive community initiatives that promote mental wellbeing, healthy relationships and collaborative responses to complex or emerging social challenges.
3. Encourage Youth Engagement & Employment Readiness
Encourage youth to build foundational life skills, confidence, and readiness for the future through affordable, youth -centered programs delivered in welcoming spaces that support positive mental health, reflect their interests, and strengthen their connect ion to the community.
4. Strengthen Child, Youth & Family Wellbeing
Strengthen the social, emotional, and developmental wellbeing of children, youth, and families by recognizing that healthy development is supported through strong parenting, nurturing caregiving and positive relationships
5. Support Aging Well Together Initiatives
Support older adults to remain connected, engaged, and independent through community -based, prevention -focused programs that strengthen aging -in-place supports and social connection.
RECOMMENDED ACTIONS BY PRIORITY AREA
The following information is intended to help community organizations determine how their programs and services align with both provincial prevention priorities and local FCSS investment goals . The c ommunity -informed goals and recommendations are outlined and organized by priority area to demonstrate alignment with provincial prevention priorities. However, i t is important to note that all the priorities and goals are interconnected , and the local FCSS investment goals and subsequent recommendations may contribute to multiple priority areas, reflecting the integrated approach required for effective prevention.
Homelessness & Housing Insecurity
Homelessness and housing insecurity prevention requires an integrated response that addresses the root causes of housing instability. i FCSS supports homelessness prevention by offering community -based programs that reduce risk factors while building resiliency, self -sufficiency, and long -term stability for individuals and families. ii
Local FCSS Investment Goal
#1 Connect Individuals and Families to Supports:
Enhance awareness and access to community programs and services, and support individuals and families in navigating available resources, including those that address basic needs.
✓ Improve connection to local supports through centralized resource hubs and system navigators, ensuring services are person -centered, culturally responsive and reflective of the diverse populations they serve.
✓ Continue to invest in collaboration and innovation to strengthen the community food system, including dignified food access models, expanded distribution and delivery, school -based programs, and food education and skillbuilding initiatives.
✓ Keep programs affordable and reduce financial barriers to participation.
✓ Increase accessibility of programs by addressing barriers such as transportation, childcare, and unnecessary eligibility criteria.
Mental Health & Addictions
Alberta’s shift toward a recovery -oriented system of care reflects the understanding that a full continuum of supports in addressing mental health and addiction concerns includes strong prevention efforts that reduce risk factors and strengthen protective factors . FCSS plays a key role in the community by ensuring preventive mental health and addictions programs are available locally, including awareness and education, wellbeing supports, resilience and coping -skill development, and opportunities to strengt hen community connections. iii
Local FCSS Investment Goal
#2 Build Community Belonging & Resilience:
Foster belonging and resilience by supporting inclusive community initiatives that promote mental wellbeing, healthy relationships and collaborative responses to complex or emerging social challenges.
✓ Strengthen child, youth, and family wellbeing through accessible, preventionfocused programming that builds resilience, healthy relationships, and essential skills at all life stages.
✓ Respond to growing societal challenges, such as increased screen time and social media concerns
✓ Integrate mental health promotion and wellbeing supports into everyday settings and community spaces to reach children, youth, and families in convenient locations.
✓ Provide inclusive, affordable spaces and activities for youth that promote connection, creativity, physical activity, and stress reduction.
✓ Build community belonging through volunteer engagement, collaboration, culturally responsive and trauma -informed approaches, and education that reduces stigma and encourages help -seeking.
Employment
Offering a wide range of community supports can help prevent unemployment and poverty , and programs that build employability give individuals and families better economic outcomes. When people gain the skills to find and keep jobs, households are healthier and more resilient.
In addition, c ommunities with strong services and supports are also more attractive to new businesses, which can lead to more local job opportunities iv FCSS can fund skill building programs or events that help build general life skills, employability skills, financial literacy, and mentorship and leadership opportunities.
Local FCSS Investment Goal
#3 Encourage Youth Engagement and Employment
Readiness:
Encourage youth to build foundational life skills, confidence, and readiness for the future through affordable, youth -centered programs delivered in welcoming spaces that support positive mental health, reflect their interests, and strengthen their connect ion to the community.
✓ Increase employability and life skills for youth through accessible, practical skill -building opportunities that prepare them for the future.
✓ Improve access to employment pathways by strengthening connections between youth and employers.
✓ Expand career exploration and experiential learning opportunities that help youth understand and access a range of employment pathways.
✓ Create opportunities for mentorship, volunteering, and relationship -building to support healthy development and long -term economic participation.
Family & Sexual Violence
Family and Sexual Violence prevention helps build stronger families and safer homes where violence is less likely to occur. Through FCSS , programs focus on strengthening protective factors that reduce the risk of child abuse or neglect by building supportive relationships within the family, at school, and across the community.
By supporting parents and spouses to be confident role models, FCSS helps create a stable foundation for families FCSS programs provide a range of supports including education and awareness, skills -based learning, opportunities for fun and connection, and links to critical services so families have what they need to thrive and stay safe.
#4 Strengthen Child, Youth & Family Wellbeing:
Strengthen the social, emotional, and developmental wellbeing of children, youth, and families by recognizing that healthy development is supported through strong parenting, nurturing caregiving and positive relationships.
✓ Support parenting, caregiving, and child wellbeing through education, skillbuilding, and coordinated, family -centred programs that strengthen connection, belonging, and outcomes for the whole family.
✓ Enhance early family violence prevention efforts through coordinated responses, accessible supports, and the promotion of safe, healthy relationships.
✓ Reduce barriers to accessing programs and supports by considering transportation, childcare availability, and program policies that may limit caregiver participation.
✓ Increase access to affordable before - and after -school care and drop -in programs , to reduce stress on families and caregivers.
✓ Provide inclusive, prevention -focused programs for families in challenging situations , including young parents, caregivers of children with special needs, and individuals navigating the family justice system .
Aging Well in Community
Aging Well in Community means ensuring older adults have access to community programs and supports that reduce social isolation and encourage participation. It also means ensuring that non -medical home supports are in place to ensure that older adults can continue to live in their homes safely. FCSS programs can help older adults stay connected, health y, and able to live independently in their homes across Alberta. vi
Local FCSS Investment Goal
#5 Support Aging Well Together Initiatives:
Support older adults to remain connected, engaged, and independent through community -based, preventionfocused programs that strengthen aging -in-place supports and social connection.
✓ Support older adults to age safely and independently in their homes by reducing isolation, increasing the availability of non -medical home supports, and improving access to local information.
✓ Increase opportunities for social connection, companionship, and participation through inclusive, accessible activities, outreach, and programs that reduce loneliness , while ensuring that transportation is not a barrier.
✓ Promote intergenerational connection by creating opportunities for older adults and young people to learn from one another through shared activities, mentorship, volunteerism, and community -based programs.
✓ Improve access to navigation, education, and practical life skills support, including help with technology, online forms, and understanding available community resources.
✓ Enhance accessibility through outreach, and by providing culturally and linguistically inclusive programming .
✓ Strengthen community -based approaches that value older adults’ voices, lived experience, and contributions, supporting their continued engagement and sense of belonging .
SECTION 2: SUPPORTING RESEARCH
& DATA
The following section provides links to supporting data that reinforces the needs and priorities identified through community engagement and research findings . It highlights key trends rather than offering a full analysis. The information is not exhaustive, and organizations are encouraged to use additional relevant , reliable research and data to support their proposals.
HOMELESSNESS & HOUSING INSECURITY DATA
Homelessness and housing insecurity are key FCSS prevention priorities, as stable housing is essential to well -being. Housing instability is often linked to complex challenges and can lead to long -term hardship, especially as affordability pressures rise. Recognizing early warning signs and connecting individuals and families to appropriate supports as soon as possible is critical to preventing homelessness and reducing long -term impacts, particularly for populations at higher risk.
Point -in-Time Count
Grande Prairie Point -in-Time Count 2024
The City of Grande Prairie’s Point -in-Time Count 2024 report emphasizes that individuals experiencing homelessness face complex and overlapping challenges, including high rates of substance use and mental health concerns. Survey data shows that ma ny homeless individuals first experienced homelessness as children or youth, with youth and Indigenous Peoples disproportionately represented in the local homeless population: vii
• 52% experienced homelessness for the first time as a child or before the age of 25.
• 34% lived in foster care, indicating early and ongoing vulnerability.
• 31% are youth under 24 years of age .
• 43% are First Nations, Inuit, or Métis Peoples.
Local Housing Costs
Reduced affordability in homeownership markets, often means more households may have to choose renting over owning. viii From 2022 to 2025, the average house sale price in Grande Prairie increased by 9% from $341.3K to $372.1K. ix In the same time
span, apartment rental costs in Grande Prairie have increase d over 20% , as shown in the following table. x
Private
Core Housing Need
HART Community Housing Report (2023)
A household is in core housing need when its housing d oes not meet adequacy, suitability, or affordability needs , and renting a home that meets these standards would cost 30% or more of their before -tax income . xi The HART Community Housing Report was completed in 2023, utilizing 2021 census data. xii
• 2,515 (10%) households in Grande Prairie are in Core Housing Need
o 46% of renters in subsidized housing are in Core Housing Need.
o 19% of renters in market housing are in Core Housing Need.
Regional Seniors and Family Housing Needs Assessment Study (2023)
While current housing needs are concentrated among renters aged 45 –64, Grande Spirit Foundation’s Regional Seniors and Family Housing Needs Assessment shows future demand is expected to shift toward seniors. From 2021 to 2036, most households in core housing need in the region will be 65 and older, with increasing demand for affordable supportive living as this population ages. xiii
Housing Affordability Challenges
Housing Challenges related to Affordability, Adequacy, Condition, and Discrimination (2024)
An analysis of the Canadian Social Survey (CSS) – Quality of Life, Health, and Housing Costs provides insight into the types of housing challenges individuals are facing, and the impact it is having on their quality of life, such as: xiv
• 45% of Canadians are very concerned about their ability to afford housing because of rising housing costs or rising rent.
• 35% experienced difficulty meeting their financial needs.
• 34% have had a member of their household experience significant financial difficulty.
• 31% have had moving plans impacted by rising prices.
• 24% dissatisfied with the affordability of their housing.
• 21% were majorly or severely impacted by rising mortgage interest rates.
• 2% were on a waitlist for subsidized housing.
Furthermore, self -reported quality of life indicators are significantly lower for those experiencing one or more housing challenges, when compared with those that did not report housing challenges. xv
Populations At -Risk for Homelessness and Housing Insecurity
National Housing Strategy (2017)
The National Housing Strategy emphasizes that the following populations groups may need additional support with finding suitable, affordable housing: xvi
• Survivors of gender -based violence
• Seniors
• Indigenous Peoples
• Young adults (youth)
• People with Disabilities
• Individuals dealing with mental health and addictions issues
• Veterans
• 2SLGBTQIA+ communities
• Racialized groups
• Recent immigrants, including Refugees .
• People experiencing homelessness .
Youth Homelessness Prevention
Everyone Counts 2024 – Part 2
Preventing youth homelessness is a top priority across Canada. The 2024 Everyone Counts – Part 2 report states that, “earlier experiences with homelessness are associated with a greater prevalence of chronic homelessness.” xvii This means that if an individual experiences homelessness as a child or youth, they are more likely to struggle with remaining housed later in life.
The Core Principles for Youth Homelessness Prevention (2024)
The Canadian Observatory on Homelessness updated their Core Principles for Youth Homelessness Prevention in 2024 , recognizing that housing is essential for a young
person’s well -being and success. Without secure housing, youth face major barriers to school, work, mental health, and healthy development. xviii
ACE Score and Relation to Adult Homelessness
Research has shown that there is a clear link between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and the risk of experiencing homelessness later in life . Equipping families with the knowledge and skills to prevent ACEs is critical for the wellbeing of individuals, families, and the community. xix
Food Insecurity
Food insecurity is an early warning sign of housing insecurity. Research from the Social Policy Research team at the University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy suggests that food bank use is an underappreciated predictor of future homelessness. xx Food bank usage signals significant household distress, emphasizing the importance of connecting households with community supports and services when they are first seeking food assistance.
HungerCount (2025)
Food bank visits in Alberta increased by 134.4% from 2019 to 2025. xxi
• 36.2% of recipients were children aged 17 or under.
• 70.5% of recipients lived in market rental housing.
Canadian Income Survey (2023)
30.9% of Albertans live in food -insecure households. xxii
Food Access & Affordability Survey (2023)
19.13% of households in Grande Prairie often face problems affording food, with an additional 38.76% occasionally facing problems affording food for their households.
• Whe n asked “what services related to food and nutrition would Grande Prairie and area residents like to see in the community?” Popular responses included the following:
MENTAL HEALTH & ADDICTIONS DATA
The percentage of individuals in Canada self -reporting very good or excellent mental health is declining. Mental illness and/or addiction touch nearly every Canadian through personal experience, family, friends, workplaces, and communities , yet there is often stigma attached to seeking support. The impact of declining mental health is also economic: mental illness costs Canada an estimated $50 billion per year, while substance use is estimated to cost Canada $ 40 billion each year . xxiii
The following are known to have a positive impact on community mental health: xxiv
• Health promotion and prevention programs.
• Early intervention aimed at children and families.
• More options for treating depression and anxiety disorders.
• Workplace mental health programs.
Mental Health in Canada
Health of People in Canada Dashboard
In 2023, only 54.0% of Canadians reported having very good or excellent mental health, reflecting a significant decline in positive mental health nationwide. In comparison, 71.8% of Canadians rated their mental health as very good or excellent in 2015. xxv
• Mental health is even lower for young adults (18 -34 years), with less than ½ (46.4%) reporting that their mental health is very good or excellent.
• 13.6% of adults 18+ reported mood disorders (17.0% female, 10.2% male).
o 16.6% of individuals between the ages of 18 to 34 reported mood disorders.
• 10.4% of adults 18+ reported anxiety disorders (7.2% males, 13.5% female)
o 15.0% of individuals between the ages of 18 to 34 reported anxiety disorders.
Telus Health Mental Health Index Report (Q4 2025)
Telus Health publishes a quarterly report with insights about mental health of the working populations for various regions, including Canada. Data is gathered by surveying 19,000 employed individuals. The recent data gathered provides some insight into rea sons working Canadians may be self -reporting lower levels of mental health :xxvi
• 35% of feel anxious.
• 31% feel isolated.
• 30% do not have emergency savings for basic needs.
• 29% say their mental health is affecting their productivity at work.
• 27% feel depressed.
• 16% do not feel hopeful about their future.
• 10% report poor psychological health.
Parental Experiences Survey (2024)
In 2024, about half of Canadian mothers surveyed reported emotional or mental health challenges during pregnancy or after birth. Most said their challenges began after childbirth. xxvii
• 49% reported experiencing emotional or mental health challenges , and of those who experienced challenges:
o 60% began after childbirth .
o 25% began during pregnancy
o 15% began before pregnancy.
• Younger mothers were slightly more likely to report challenges.
• 43% of racialized mothers reported challenges, compared with 52% of nonracialized mothers.
• 38% of recent immigrants reported challenges, compared with 52% of nonimmigrants.
• Across all groups, challenges most often began in the postpartum period.
Addictions & Substance Use
Poor mental health is one of many risk factors for addiction, with more than 50% of Canadians with substance use disorders also having mental health concerns. Other risk factors for addiction include genetics, how the brain processes substances, ability to cope with difficult thoughts or feelings, and environmental factors or experiences, individuals that experience marginalization, social isolation, and/or trauma are at a greater risk. xxviii
Alberta Substance Use Surveillance System
The Alberta Substance Use Surveillance System dashboard provides local or regional statistics, such as: xxix
• Drug poisoning deaths by year
• Emergency department visits related to substance use by year
• Alberta drug poisoning by sex & age group
• Alberta drug poisoning by substance
This data is helpful in identifying and monitoring trends, and from a preventive lens can provide further insight into at -risk demographics and the types of substances resulting in accidental drug poisoning deaths.
Canadian Students Alcohol and Drugs Survey (2023 -24)
This survey is conducted every two years with students in Grades 7 to 12 across Canada. It provides important data on topics such as substance use trends, access to various substances, and awareness of the risks and harms associated with substance use. xxx
• Alcohol, followed by vaping products and cannabis, is the most widely used substance among students. Alcohol is also reported to be the easiest substance to access, followed by cannabis.
• Students in Grade 12 report the highest levels of substance use within the past 30 days.
• There is limited awareness across all age groups of the risks associated with various substances.
Social Connection & Community Belonging
Research shows that many people experience loneliness and social isolation. Social isolation affects an estimated 5% to 35% of the population, with higher rates among people who may already face other challenges : older adults, people with disabilities, and those living with ongoing physical or mental health conditions are more likely to experience loneliness and social isolation than the general population. xxxi
Social Connection Guidelines
Social connection is a key component of our health. It impacts an individual’s overall physical health, mental wellbeing, and even life expectancy. Communities can actively promote social connection in numerous ways. xxxii Canadian researchers have developed recommended public health guidelines for social connection. There research outlines both individual guidelines , as well as the following community guidelines: xxxiii
• Promote awareness of the importance of social connection.
• Make social connection a priority in policies and practices.
• Improve accessibility and inclusion for all people.
• Foster healthy social and emotional development.
• Design environments for connection and invest in social events, activities, and programs.
• Measure and make progress towards improving social wellbeing.
Community and Well -being: Exploring Sense of Belonging Among Youth
Data from the Canadian Social Survey shows that a stronger sense of belonging is associated with higher quality -of-life indicators, including positive mental health, greater life satisfaction, and a more optimistic outlook on the future. Self-reported sense of belonging tends to be higher for younger youth, compared to older young adults: xxxiv
• 63% of younger youth (ages 15 to 19) report a strong sense of belonging in their community,
• 47% of youth ages 20 to 24 , and
• 43% of those ages 25 to 29.
The lower sense of belonging in early adulthood suggests that the transition to adulthood may affect feelings of community belonging.
Making Space for Youth in Our Communities
The City of Grande Prairie’s Youth Advisory Council (YAC) has highlighted the importance of ensuring that youth have third spaces within the community where they feel th ey belong.
According to “Canada’s Placemaking Community ,” placemaking for youth focuses on creating safe, inclusive, and engaging spaces where young people feel a sense of belonging and connection. By involving youth in shaping their environments and community , it supports their well -being, encourages positive social interactions, and helps build confidence. xxxv
2024 Building Belonging: An Analysis of the 2023 Immigrant Survey and Inclusive and Caring Community Consultations
Grande Prairie is a diverse and multicultural community, with residents from around the world speaking approximately 70 languages. The 2024 Building Belonging: An Analysis of the 2023 Immigrant Survey and Inclusive and Caring Community Consultations report provides detailed insight into the experiences and challenges faced by immigrants in our community. xxxvi
Newcomers may be particularly vulnerable to social isolation, as adapting to a new culture and integrating into a new community can be challenging. Findings from the 2023 immigrant survey highlight the extent of this issue:
• 9% of respondents reported that they always feel lonely , and
• 59% reported that they sometimes feel lonely .
Programs that are inclusive, celebrate diversity, address the unique needs of newcomers, and reduce barriers to participation play an important role in helping newcomers feel welcome and supporting their successful integration into the community.
Screen Use and Social Media
Centre for Health y Screen Use at the Canadian Paediatric Society
The Canadian P ae diatric Society emphasizes that young children learn best from face -to-face interactions with caregivers and provides recommendations for screen time by age. For example :
• No screen time for children under 2 years old.
• Children 2 to 5 years, limit to one hour or less per day.
Addressing the problems associated with screen use was identified as a three -year priority for the Canadian Pediatric Society in 2024. xxxvii
World Happiness Report (2026)
The World Happiness Report 2026 highlights the impact social media is having on society. One of the feature essays is co -authored by Jonathan Haidt , author of The Anxious Generation , titled “Social Media is Harming Young People at a Scale Large Enough to Cause Changes at the Population Level .” Drawing on global data, this essay presents data on why social media use is unsafe for children and youth, presenting compelling evidence linking increased use since 2010 to declines in youth mental health. These harms occur both directly and indirectly during a critical period of brain development. xxxviii
Examples of harms include:
• Cyberbullying
• Addiction
• Sleep Deprivation
• Sextortion
• Sexual Harassment
• Exposure to Problematic Content
• Less in -person, social interactions
• Increased depression
• Increase d anxiety
Resilience
Alberta Family Wellness Initiative
Resilience is important because everyone faces challenges beyond their control , and developing the skills to navigate them leads to healthier outcomes across the lifespan .
Supportive relationships with caregivers and other trusted adults help children build abilities like managing emotions, handling stress, and solving problems. These skills support healthy development and well -being over time. Even later in life, people can continue to build resilience, making it a valuable skill at any age. xxxix
Brain Story Certification
Brain Story Certification helps build resilience by giving professionals a deeper understanding of how brain development, relationships, and stress shape outcomes across the lifespan. Through evidence -based knowledge, it equips individuals with evidence -based approaches to support children and families, reduce the impact of adversity, and strengthen skills like emotional regulation and coping, which are key foundations of resilience. xl
EMPLOYMENT DATA
Employment is a key priority and protective factor within FCSS, supporting well -being by promoting financial stability, social connection, and a sense of purpose. Meaningful employment helps individuals meet basic needs and build resilience, though barriers to access remain for some popul ations. Understanding local labour trends and strengthening pathways to employment are essential to fostering inclusive, healthy communities.
Labour Market Information
From 2025 to 2028, job opportunities in the Grande Prairie region are projected to increase by 6%. xli
Key local employment sectors include:
• Health Care
• Transportation
• Construction
• Oil & Gas
• Education
• Agriculture
• Forestry
Alberta Regional Insights Dashboard
The unemployment rate in Alberta is 6.4% with an average weekly wage of $1,419.21, while:
• The Regional unemployment rate is 5.2%, as of January 2026 .
• The Grande Prairie unemployment rate is 7.3% , as of November 2025. xlii
Living Wage
A living wage is an estimate of the income that an individual requires to meet their basic living needs. The living wage can vary depending on the community, as the cost of living differs by location based on factors such as housing, food, childcare, trans portation, and other essential expenses. Living Wage Networks encourage employers to commit to paying their employees wages that reflect the local cost of living.
Alberta Living Wage Network (2025)
The Alberta Living Wage Network calculated the living wage for Grande Prairie, as $21.80 an hour, up 15.6% since 2024. xliii It should be noted that this is a weighted average, meaning the living wage varies depending on the household composition.
Persons with Disabilities
Canada’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan (2022)
Persons with disabilities remain under -represented in the Canadian labour market and face barriers to employment such as limited access to skills training, inaccessible workplaces, and ongoing bias and discrimination. These barriers make it more difficult for many individuals to find and maintain meaningful employment. xliv
Key statistics:
• 59% of persons with disabilities are employed compared to 80% of persons without disabilities.
• Persons with disabilities are more likely to work in lower -skilled jobs.
• Approximately 1.9 million persons with disabilities (aged 15 –64) are not in school or employed, including 852,000 who have the potential to work with adaptions or other supports.
• 84.3% of disability -related complaints to the Canadian Human Rights Commission relate to employment.
Workplace Skills Skills for Success Model
The Government of Canada’s Skills for Success Model , outlines the top skills that an individual needs to thrive in our modern world, community, and workforce. xlv
Foundational skills include the following:
• Adaptability
• Collaboration
• Communication
• Creativity and Innovation
• Digital
• Numeracy
• Problem Solving
• Reading
• Writing
Youth Employment Barriers
A youth survey is conducted annually at the Youth Career Discovery Expo (YCDE). The YDCD is a community -wide initiative to help address youth employment barriers.
At the 2025 YCDE, youth were asked “What challenges or difficulties have you faced when trying to find or keep a job?”
Top challenges included:
• My school or life schedule make it hard to work regular hours (39.18%).
• I’m not sure where to find jobs, or what types of jobs are available (34.02%).
• A lot of jobs want experience (34.02%).
Youth Challenges or Difficulties When Trying to Find or Keep a Job (2025)
My school or life schedule make it hard to work regular hours
I'm not sure where to find jobs, or what types of jobs are available
A lot of jobs want experience
I don't have a way to get to and from work
It's hard to find jobs I actually like or want to do
I've applied for lots of jobs, but I never hear back
I don't feel confident applying or doing inteviews
I don't have the training or certifications some jobs need
There aren't many job opportunities where I live
I don't have the clothes, gear, or equipment I need for work
FAMILY & SEXUAL VIOLENCE DATA
Preventing family violence requires coordinated efforts to improve overall family wellbeing. Recommendations from Sh!ft’s report, How Governments and the AntiViolence Sector Can Centre Children, Youth and Their Families in Primary Prevention Efforts (2022) outlines the following prevention needs: xlvi
1. Families have their basic material needs met.
2. Invest in parents and caregivers.
3. Create safe environments for children and youth.
4. Support children and youth to build healthy relationships.
5. Improve children’s and youth’s outcomes in all systems and institutions.
Types of Family Violence
Family violence can take many different forms , and the Government of Alberta defines family violence as “an abuse of power in a family or other trusting relationship where people rely on each other. When someone experiences family violence, their well -being, security and survival a re threatened .”xlvii
Types of family violence include domestic violence, intimate partner violence, sexual violence, child abuse, neglect and sexual exploitation, elder abuse and neglect, spousal or partner abuse, parent or guardian abuse, sibling abuse, being expose to another person’s abuse, and pet cruelt y.xlviii
Domestic Violence Shelter Statistics
From 2016 to 2023, the number of beds in domestic violence shelters in Canada has increased by 48%. Unfortunately, unaffordable housing makes it more difficult for individuals to escape domestic/intimate partners violence.
Odyssey House’s Annual Report 2024/2025
Locally, for the 2024 -25 fiscal year, Odyssey House supported 236 women and 182 children in their emergency shelter program and received 2,622 calls on their crisis line from individuals needing support or services. xlix
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
ACEs and Toxic Stress
Research has shown that there is a correlation between the more ACEs experienced in life and the greater chance of poor outcomes later in life. ACEs create toxic stress that has a negative impact on the developing brain and body. The ideal approach to addr essing ACE s is prevention , especially reducing the stress in peoples lives whether it is related to not being able to afford basic needs, addressing substance use, mental
illness, poverty, violent relationships. Ensuring that parents are supportive and nurturing to act as a buffer from the effects of stress, and ensure children and adults build core skills. l
Parenting Skills
Parenting Challenges Fact Sheet
According to the Canadian Psychological Association, s upporting parents means recognizing that everyone needs help at times, especially when facing stress or challenges. Access to reliable, evidence -based information, professional guidance, and parenting programs can help build confidence and skills. By conne cting parents to trusted supports and reducing confusion from conflicting advice, we can better equip them to meet their child’s needs and strengthen family well -being. li
AGING IN COMMUNITY DATA
As Alberta’s population continues to grow and age, the need to support older adults in living healthy, connected, and meaningful lives is becoming increasingly important. By 2051, nearly one in five Albertans will be a senior, highlighting significant demo graphic shifts that will shape community planning and service delivery. lii
Research shows that while most older adults wish to age in place, many face challenges such as social isolation, rising costs of living, and barriers to accessing supports. These trends underscore the importance of creating age friendly communities that pr ioritize accessibility, social connection, and inclusive services, ensuring that individuals can age well, safely, and with dignity in the communities they call home.
Aging in Canada
2025 N ational Institute on Ageing in Canada Survey
The Perspectives on Growing Older in Canada: The 2025 NIA Ageing in Canada Survey report provides valuable data on the experiences of individuals aged 50 or older in Canada, with a focus on the challenges of ageing. liii
• Most older adults want to age in their current home as long as possible.
• 57% of Canadians aged 50 years and older feel somewhat or very lonely, and surprisingly, 50 –64-year -olds were struggling the most with social isolation.
• 26% report that they almost never participate in social activities.
• 70% have experienced at least one form of everyday ageism in 2025.
• 31% have concerns about the rising cost of living.
• Barriers to community support services:
o wait times are too long (37%),
o cost/unable to afford (34%),
o difficulty qualifying or not eligible (28%),
o didn’t know how to access services/navigate system (23%),
o time consuming/difficulty to apply (22%),
o difficult to travel to service location (16%),
o service not available in my area (16%),
o language barriers (6%).
Healthy Aging
Healthy Aging Framework (2022)
Healthy Aging Alberta’s Healthy Aging Framework identifies the following six determinants of healthy aging: liv
• Physical and Mental Health
• Social Environment and Engagement
• Social Support
• Personal Wellbeing
• Physical Environment
• Safety and Security
Aging Well Together Priorities & Goals (2025)
Based on comprehensive community engagement, in 2025 the City of Grande Prairie released its Aging Well Together Priorities & Goals . These goals focus on the following priority areas, with an overarching goal of building a more age -friendly community. lv Priority Focus Areas include :
• Accessibility, mobility, and connectivity
• Communication and technology
• Housing and the cost of living
• Social participation, recreation, and wellness
• Community supports and health services
Social Prescribing
Social prescribing is an innovative approach that connects individuals to non -medical supports in their community to improve overall health and well -being. Through the City of Grande Prairie’s partnership with the Grande Prairie Primary Care Network, resid ents aged 55 and older can be referred by healthcare providers to a link worke r.
A Link Worker is someone who helps them access social, recreational, and support services tailored to their needs. This approach recognizes that health is shaped by social factors, not just medical care. As the system evolves, FCSS -funded programs for seniors are essential to its success, ensuring there are accessible, communitybased services available to meet the growing demand generated through social prescribing.
CONCLUSION
Overall, this social needs assessment and related data highlight the importance of using both collaborative and evidence -informed insights to guide responsive, prevention -focused investments in Grande Prairie. The findings clearly demonstrate that while residents value a wide range of social supports, there is a strong and consistent need to address basic needs, enhance access to services, and strengthen supports for children, youth, families, and older adults. The alignment between survey results, communit y recommendations , and provincial prevention priorities reinforces the validity of the identified local FCSS investment goals and underscores the interconnected nature of social wellbeing. Addressing these needs through collaborative , innovative , and accessible programs will be essential to reducing barriers and advancing Council’s strategic priority of “ Community Empowerment and Livability ” across the community.
Moving forward, the established FCSS Investment Goals provide a clear and strategic framework to guide FCSS funding decisions and program development for 2027 –2029. By prioritizing connecting individuals and families to supports, community belonging and resilience, youth engagement and employment, child, youth, and family wellbeing, and “Aging Well Together” initiatives, Grande Prairie is wellpositioned to build a resilient and thriving community. Continued collaboration among service providers, increased awareness of available resources, and a commitment to affordability and accessibility will be critical to achieving these outcomes. This assessment serves not only as a reflection of current needs, but also as a roadmap for sustained, proactive investment in the social infrastructure that supports long -term community wellbeing .
APPENDIX 3: COMMUNITY SUPPORTS & SERVICES
SURVEY RESULTS
Q1: WHERE DO YOU CURRENTLY LIVE?
Q2: WHAT IS YOUR AGE RANGE?
Q3: IN THE PAST YEAR, HAVE YOU OR YOUR HOUSEHOLD ACCESSED ANY OF THE FOLLOWING FAMILY PROGRAMS OR SERVICES? (n=870)
School-aged Youth Programs
Parenting, Family, or Caregiver Support
Child Development
School-aged Healthy Relationship Education
Family School Liason Workers
Family or Sexual Violence Prevention
Q4: IN THE PAST YEAR, HAVE YOU OR YOUR HOUSEHOLD ACCESSED ANY OF THE FOLLOWING COMMUNITY -FOCUSED PROGRAMS OR SERVICES?
Short-term Counselling or Mediation Services
Mental Health and/or Addiction Support Groups
Mental Health Awareness or Education
Groups Social Connection
Addiction Awareness or Education
General Life Skills Community Outreach
Employability & Skills Food Banks
Recreation and/or Transit Access
Home Support Services
Mentorship or Leadership
Financial Literacy Training
Meal and Food Delivery
Eviction Prevention Services
Q5: OVERALL, HOW SATISFIED ARE YOU WITH THE COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND SERVICES CURRENTLY AVAILABLE IN OUR COMMUNITY? (n=870)
Q6: IN THE PAST YEAR, HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED ANY OF THE FOLLOWING BARRIERS WHEN ACCESSING COMMUNITY PROGRAMS OR SERVICES? (n=870)
Programs or Services Needed Are Not Available
Stigma or Discomfort Seeking Help
Difficulties
Q7: WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING FAMILY -FOCUSED PROGRAMS SHOULD BE PRIORITIZED FOR FUNDING? (SELECT UP TO 3)
Parenting, Family, or Caregiver Support
Child Development School-aged Youth
School-aged Health Relationship Education
Family or Sexual Violence Prevention
Family School Liaison Workers
Q8: WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING COMMUNITY -FOCUSED PROGRAMS OR SERVICES SHOULD BE PRIORITIZED FOR FUNDING? (SELECT UP TO 5)
Food Banks or Pantries
Q9: IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT AGE GROUPS IN OUR COMMUNITY ARE MOST IN NEED OF ADDITIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES? (SELECT UP TO 2)
Not Sure/All Age Groups Need Support Equally
Q10: PLEASE INDICATE YOUR LEVEL OF AGREEMENT WITH THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT: “I KNOW WHERE TO FIND INFORMATION ABOUT THE COMMUNITY SUPPORT PROGRAMS AND SERVICES AVAILABLE IN MY COMMUNITY.” (n=870)
END NOTES
i “Typology of Prevention .” Homeless Hub . https://homelesshub.ca/collection/prevention/typologyprevention/
ii “Homelessness + Housing Insecurity ” FCSSAA https://impact.fcssaa.org/homelessness -housinginsecurity
iii “Mental Health & Addiction s.” FCSSAA https://impact.fcssaa.org/mental -health -addictions
iv “Employment ” FCSSAA https://impact.fcssaa.org/employment
v “Family + Sexual Violence ” FCSSAA https://impact.fcssaa.org/family -sexual -violence
vi “Aging Well in Community.” FCSSAA https://impact.fcssaa.org/aging -well -in-community
vii Point -in-Time Count 2024 . City of Grande Prairie. https://cityofgp.com/sites/default/files/202504/2024%20Point%20in%20Time%20Count%20Summary.pdf
viii “Doubling Pace of Construction Over Next Decade would restore housing affordability to 2019 levels. ” CMHC. https://www.cmhc -schl.gc.ca/media -newsroom/news -releases/2025/cmhc -releaseslatest -housing -supply -gaps -report
ix “Economic Profile & Data” . Invest Grande Prairie . https://cityofgp.com/economicdevelopment/investor -resources/economic -profile -data , accessed February 3, 2026.
x “Primary Rental Market Statistics .” CMHC , accessed February 3, 2026 https://www03.cmhcschl.gc.ca/hmip -pimh/en#Profile/1/1/Canada
xi “The National Housing Strategy Glossary of Common Terms .” CMHC https://www.cmhcschl.gc.ca/nhs/guidepage -strategy/glossary
xii HART Community Housing Report: City of Grande Prairie, Alberta . Housing Assessment Research Tools. https://cityofgp.com/sites/default/files/202501/2024%20HART%20Community%20Report%20%20Grande%20Prairie%20AB%20FINAL%20(003).pdf
xiii 2023 Update to the 2019 Regional Seniors and Family Housing Needs Assessment Study . Gordon Associates. https://cityofgp.com/sites/default/files/202501/Grande%20Spirit%20Foundation%20Housing%20Needs%20Assessment%202023%20Update_31 1223_FINAL.pdf , p. 47.
xiv “Housing Challenges Related to Affordability, Adequacy, Condition, and Discrimination, August 2 to September 15, 2024 .” Statistics Canada . https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/dailyquotidien/241119/dq241119b -eng.htm
xv Ibid.
xvi “About the National Housing Strategy.” Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada. https://housing -infrastructure.canada.ca/housing -logement/ptch -csd/about -strat -apropos -eng.html
xvii Everyone Counts 2024 Highlights Report Part 2 – Survey of People Experiencing Homelessness . Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada. https://housing -infrastructure.canada.ca/altformat/pdf/homelessness -sans -abri/reports -rapports/pit -counts -dp -2024 -highlights -p2-en.pdf , p. 13.
xviii “Core Principles of Youth Homelessness Prevention.” Homelessness Learning Hub https://homelessnesslearninghub.ca/library/resources/core -principles -for-youth -homelessnessprevention/
xix “Infographic: Adverse Childhood Experiences and Adult Homelessness.” Homeless Hub https://homelesshub.ca/blog/2016/infographic -adverse -childhood -experiences -and -adulthomelessness/
xx Food Bank Use Prior to Homelessness . School of Public Policy. University of Calgary. https://www.policyschool.ca/wp -content/uploads/2025/06/HSP122 -Final.pdf
xxi Hunger Count 2025 . Food Banks of Canada. https://content.foodbankscanada.ca/wordpress/2025/10/FBC_HungerCount_EN_2025.pdf
xxii “Food Insecurity by Economic Family Type. ” Statistics Canada. https://doi.org/10.25318/1310083401 -eng
xxiii “Mental Illness and Addiction: Facts and Statistics.” Centre of Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). https://www.camh.ca/en/driving -change/the -crisis -is-real/mental -health -statistics
xxiv Ibid.
xxv “How healthy are people in Canada? An indicators dashboard. ” Public Health Agency of Canada https://health -infobase.canada.ca/health -of-people -in-Canada -dashboard/
xxvi Telus Mental Health Index | Canada | September 2025 . Telus Health. https://go.telushealth.com/telus -mental -health -index
xxvii “Access to Postpartum Health C are and Perinatal Mental Health Support, 2024 Parental Experiences Survey .” Statistics Canada. https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/dailyquotidien/260205/dq260205a -eng.htm
xxviii “Addiction.” CAMH https://www.camh.ca/en/health -info/mental -illness -and -addictionindex/addiction
xxix “Alberta Substance Use Surveillance Dashboard.” Government of Alberta . https://www.alberta.ca/substance -use -surveillance -data#jumplinks -0
xxx Alcohol and Drug Use among Students in Canada, 2023 -24. Government of Canada. https://www.canada.ca/en/health -canada/services/canadian -student -tobacco -alcohol -drugssurvey/2023 -2024 -key -findings.html
xxxi “How Common are Loneliness and Isolation?” Social Connection Guidelines. https://www.socialconnectionguidelines.org/en/evidence -briefs/how -common -are -loneliness -andisolation
xxxii “Guideline Development Process.” Social Connection Guidelines. https://www.socialconnectionguidelines.org/en/guideline -development -process
xxxiii Ibid.
xxxiv “Community and Well -being: Exploring Sense of Belonging Among Youth.” Statistics Canada https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/75 -006 -x/2025003/article/00001 -eng.htm
xxxv “Making Space for Youth in Our Communities.” Canada’s Placemaking Community https://placemakingcommunity.ca/blog/making -space -for-youth/
xxxvi 2024 Building Belonging : An Analysis of the Grande Prairie 2023 Immigrant Survey and Inclusive and Caring Community Consultations. City of Grande Prairie.
https://issuu.com/cityofgp/docs/2023_immigrant_survey_report_june_5_2024
xxxvii “Evidence -based Guidance in a Digital World.” Centre for Healthy Screen Use at the Canadian Paediatric Society. https://healthyscreenuse.cps.ca/about -us/centre -for-healthy -screen -use
xxxviii “Social Media is Harming Adolescents at a Scale Large Enough to Cause Changes at the Population Level.” World Happiness Report. https://www.worldhappiness.report/ed/2026/socialmedia -is-harming -adolescents -at -a-scale -large -enough -to-cause -changes -at -the -population -level/ xxxix “Resilience: Why Do Some of Us Bounce Back from Adversity Better than Others?” Alberta Family Wellness Initiative. https://www.albertafamilywellness.org/what -we-know/resilience -scale/
xl “Brain Story Certification.” Alberta Family Wellness Initiative. https://www.albertafamilywellness.org/training/
xli Work NW Alberta . https://worknwalberta.ca/
xlii “Banff -Jasper -Rocky Mountain House and Athabasca -Grande Prairie -Peace River Economic Region.” Government of Alberta. https://labour -market.alberta.ca/regions/banff -jasper -rockymountain -house -and -athabasca -grande -prairie -peace -river/sub -regions , accessed March 4, 2026.
xliiiAlberta Living Wage Report. Alberta Living Wage Network. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/63ebf58a5a658d0c030f0f25/t/69156f10522710008d4fe2a4/176 3012368617/ALWN+Community+Calculations+%26+Methodology+2025.pdf
xliv “Canada’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan, 2022 .” Employment and Social Development Canada. https://www.canada.ca/en/employment -social -development/programs/disability -inclusion -actionplan/action -plan -2022.html#h3.6
xlv “Skills for Success.” Government of Canada https://www.canada.ca/en/services/jobs/training/initiatives/skills -success/understandingindividuals.html
xlvi How Government and the Anti -Violence Sector can Centre Children, Youth and Families in Primary Prevention Efforts. Sh !ft The Project to End Domestic Violence. https://preventdomesticviolence.ca/wpcontent/uploads/2023/04/R67_Shift_2023_Children_and_Youth_in_Primary_Pevention_Efforts.pdf
xlvii Family Violence Hurts Everyone: A Framework to End Family Violence in Alberta Government of Alberta. https://www.humanservices.alberta.ca/documents/family -violence -hurts -everyone.pdf
xlviii “What is Family Violence.” Government of Alberta https://www.alberta.ca/recognize -familyviolence
xlix Odyssey House Annual Report 2024 -25. Odyssey House. https://www.odysseyhouse.ca/_files/ugd/c03b45_aee4d31e09b94fe287e29392d8811f0a.pdf , p. 8.
l “ACEs and Toxic Stress: Frequently Asked Questions .” Center on the Developing Child. Harvard University. https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/infographics/aces -and -toxic -stressfrequently -asked -questions/
li “’Psychology Works’ Fact Sheet: Parenting Challenges.” Canadian Psychological Association. https://cpa.ca/psychology -works -fact -sheet -parenting -challenges/
lii “Alberta Population Projections 2025 -2051.” Government of Alberta . https://open.alberta.ca/dataset/4926ffa2 -71ff-41ec-9caf -e968f8f72d3c/resource/ef768882 -41e1-4697bbaf -c51c09fa3cb1/download/tbf -population -projections -2025 -2051-infographic.pdf , accessed March 24, 2026.
liii Perspectives on Growing Older in Canada: The 2025 NIA Ageing in Canada Survey . National Institute on Ageing . https://niageing.ca/reports/perspectives -on-growing -older -in-canada -the -2025nia -ageing -in-canada -survey/
liv An Introduction to the Healthy Aging Framework . Healthy Aging Alberta. https://corealberta.ca/files/28444
lv Aging Well Together 2025 Priorities and Goals . City of Grande Prairie. https://issuu.com/cityofgp/docs/aging_well_together_priorities
lvi “Regional Dashboard - Grande Prairie.” Government of Alberta https://regionaldashboard.alberta.ca/region/grande -prairie/#/
lvii City of Grande Prairie 2024 Municipal Census Demographics Report . City of Grande Prairie https://cityofgp.com/sites/default/files/docs/City%20of%20Grande%20Prairie%202024%20Census %20Final%20Report.pdf
