Funding to Family and Community Support Services (FCSS)
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Urban Municipalities (AUMA) request the Government of Alberta to increase provincial funding to municipalities for Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) to $100 million dollars (currently $75.7), thereby relieving the pressure on crisis intervention and prevention services.
WHEREAS the Municipal Government Act states that the purpose of a municipality is to provide good government, to provide services, facilities or other things that, in the opinion of council, are necessary or desirable for all or a part of the municipality, and to develop and maintain safe and viable communities;
WHEREAS the fundamental facilities, organizations, services and opportunities are essential to a well functioning person, family and community;
WHEREAS the investment in prevention services will be a significant step in creating sustainable systems for Children, Youth Services, Justice and Education;
WHEREAS the response to crisis and intervention at early signs of problems aide to provide skills to reduce crisis and troubling behaviours;
WHEREAS the Province currently provides $75.7 million dollars for Family and Community Support Services; and
WHEREAS the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association represents the collective voice of urban municipalities.
Nov 15, 2012 – AUMA Executive Committee meeting with Minister of Human Services
The Ministry acknowledged the importance of FCSS programs but indicated there is tremendous pressure on income support programs and child protection that he will be unable to increase the funding in 2013.
AUMA accepts this response.