For more than 20 years, families in the qathet region have turned to Lift Community Services’ Family Place Resource Centre and Babies Open New Doors (BOND) Program for support. As these programs prepare to move from the Town Centre mall to Crossroads Village, each is ready to reach even more families and continue providing essential services.
Lift’s Community Hub coordinator Grace Chaster believes the move marks an exciting step forward.
“Families will benefit from having extra resources all in one place,” she explains. “It’s still centrally located, accessible by foot and bus, and will streamline support by reducing the need to travel to multiple locations, especially when you have little ones in tow.”
Family Place’s in-house resources include a food and hygiene cupboard, clothing and toy swaps, and meal services—initiatives Chaster describes as “make-or-break” for many families.
“Family Place offers a warm environment for families with young children,” says Chaster. “We serve hot meals, snacks and have a hygiene cupboard and food pantry on-site. By offering monthly programming and drop-in events, families can access the help they need and connect with one another.”
By offering services in a child-friendly, welcoming environment, Family Place helps reduce barriers that might otherwise prevent families from seeking help.
“People can come in, let their children play, and talk with our staff without feeling rushed or judged,” adds Chaster.
Meanwhile, the BOND Program focuses on perinatal nutrition and support.
“BOND provides grocery coupons, baby necessities, prenatal vitamins and a warm environment for pregnant individuals and new parents,” explains Chaster. “We meet people where they’re at, whether it’s at Public Health, community venues or at our Family Place Centre every Monday. Our goal is to make this process as accessible and welcoming as possible.”
BOND provides support through pregnancy up to six months postpartum, often the most challenging period for new parents.
“The program looks to address emotional, social and practical needs with educational and peer support opportunities,” adds Chaster. “Our goal is to create a sense of belonging and camaraderie so new parents don’t feel isolated.”
Both programs flourished in the mall for two decades, an achievement Chaster attributes to strong community engagement and an ability to adapt.
“We’ve partnered with many local service providers over the years and learned how to pivot through challenges like COVID-19 and location changes,” she notes.
Local resources such as Infant Development, Speech and Language, Physiotherapy, Child and Youth Mental Health, and Public Health enhance the support network.
“Our priority is ensuring families can always reach the services they need, no matter the circumstances.”
When asked what sets the programs apart, Chaster highlights in-person peer support and a focus on mental health.
“The perinatal and postnatal period can be overwhelming,” she says. “Connecting face-to-face with others going through or having gone through the same experience is tremendously helpful. That sense of community and empathy is at the core of our services.”
As the programs evolve in their new home, Chaster envisions ever-expanding services.
“I hope to see more programming, deeper community collaborations and continued empowerment of local families. We’re always looking to grow. The world is changing, and we’re committed to ensuring no one falls through the cracks.”
For families or community members who may feel hesitant to reach out, Chaster offers reassurance: “Our centre is safe. Our staff is loving. There’s no judgment—we care. If you’re unsure about coming in person, you can always email or call. We’re here to help in any way we can.”
To volunteer or access support, go to liftcommunityservices.org, or email/call [email protected] (604.414.5603) or [email protected] (604.483.1335).
