Family support organizations: a safety net for vulnerable families

We are currently working on promoting family support organizations on our territory. The goal is for families to use the services provided by these organizations, ideally when the first child is born. Here in more detail are the thoughts that guide this action.
The Needs of the Family
Families have to meet many needs, and it’s well known that a parent who’s unable to meet the basic needs of the family is less available to take action on other aspects of the family’s wellbeing, such as the children’s optimal development.
The Resources Within the Community
We know that one in ten families on our territory is unable to meet its basic needs, and that only one quarter of people who need food assistance actually seek help from organizations. These figures are alarming, given that a good number of services are available in our community.
What Explains These Figures?
  • The lack of trust in organizations on the part of some families, the fear of being judged, as well as negative experiences they might have had in the past;
  • The large amount of information received makes parents feel that gaining access to services is complicated, which leads to discouragement;
  • The lack of knowledge of services, especially those in the community, specialized services and those in rural settings;
  • The fear of being identified with the use of certain services;
  • The belief that some services aren’t for them.
In Light of These Concerns, We Believe:
  • That it would be beneficial to establish trust between organizations and parents
before problems get out of hand and require the aid of social services, which
might be seen as threatening;
  • That we must make sure that our referrals are successful, thereby enabling
the transfer of trust;
  • That we must provide targeted information to parents, according to their specific
needs, to keep them from getting discouraged.
Below are the different referral organizations according to MRC territory. Feel free to tell families about them and to contact us if you have any questions!
Organismes de soutien aux familles par territoire
Magog
Maison de la famille de Memphrémagog
40, rue Jean-Paul II, Magog, QC J1X 1E3
(819) 868-0145

Potton
Espace Famille
819-868-0299
Cercle des bambins
Trish Wood
(450) 292-3313 poste #228

Stanstead
PACE
112 Rue Principale, Stanstead, QC J0B 3E5
(819) 876-7748
Facebook: Pace Cab Rediker

Si la famille est déjà méfiante envers les services
Équipe Ressource Relais
819-868-0299