High River’s Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) program is celebrating 60 years of helping residents in Alberta. The local resource centre had a busy 2025, with over 4,200 visits and assistance provided to more than 800 people through the Volunteer Income Tax program.
The program started in 1966 as the Preventive Social Services Program and was renamed FCSS in 1981. It operates through a partnership where the province covers up to 80 percent of funding and the municipality contributes the rest. Today, FCSS reaches nearly 200 towns and cities across Alberta, with 99 percent of Albertans living somewhere that offers FCSS services.
Mayor Craig Snodgrass said the town remains focused on making life more affordable, improving quality of life, and helping neighbours connect. “Locally we are committed to our focus areas which include addressing affordability, improving quality of life, building connections and increasing awareness of social issues,” he said in a news release.
The High River FCSS also gives out $75,000 each year through its Community Grant Program. The money supports local groups running youth programs, family supports, volunteer efforts, and projects that bring people together. One example is Cycling Without Age, which High River joined in 2017. Volunteers take seniors and people with mobility challenges for rides on special electric-assisted trishaws to help them stay connected to the community.
Kayla Blanchette, board president of the Family and Community Support Services Association of Alberta, said the programs have been making a difference for decades. “For 60 years, FCSS programs across Alberta have helped people build skills, strengthen relationships, and stay connected,” she said.
Residents who want to learn more can visit the FCSS Resource Centre in High River or join the ‘Giving Thanks’ celebration planned for October 9.
