Family and Community Support Services (FCSS):

help people to develop independence, strengthen coping skills and become more resistant to crisis;

help people to develop an awareness of social needs;

help people to develop interpersonal and group skills which enhance constructive relationships among people;

help people and communities to assume responsibility for decisions and actions which affect them;

provide supports that help sustain people as active participants in the community.”

At the local level, a municipality or Métis Settlement Council chooses whether to establish an FCSS Program and enters into an agreement with the Government of Alberta to jointly fund projects/services. These projects/services depend on community resources, often involving volunteers in management and delivery.