Out of Care Options

The Out of Care Options Program strives to instill hope and build on the personal strengths of families.

Funded by Ministry of Children and Family Development

The Out of Care Options Program supports designated MCFD caregivers who provide daily care for the children of extended family or friends. These living arrangements permit children to remain connected to the larger family network and avoid placement in foster care.
An Out of Care Options Counsellor provides caregivers with emotional support, legal system guidance and access to resources to help nurture healthy relationships within the family. The Out of Care Program facilitates an indigenous Out of Care Caregiver Support Circle that provides culturally appropriate family supports to learn about Indigenous cultural teachings. All Out of Care providers are welcome.

Contact Info: Kim Mapson – Manager of Community Programs & Family Services
Phone: T) 604.467.6911 | Ext.1101
Email: kmapson@comservice.bc.ca

Community Services Out of Care Caregiver Support Circle

Community Services facilitates a caregiver support group for non parents. The program is free of charge and is self-referred. The Caregiver Support Group is offered on an ongoing basis. New sessions date and time to be determined.

For more information and to register, please contact Sam Dyck sdyck@comservice.bc.ca
T) 604.467.6911

What does the Caregiver Support Circle do?

In a Caregiver Support Group, Caregivers meet monthly around the mutual experience of care-giving for a family member. Participants will learn about mindfulness, effective coping strategies, and helpful tips. Connect with other caregivers and get reassurance and support in a safe and friendly environment. Provides culturally appropriate family supports to learn about Indigenous cultural teachings.

What are the Benefits of a Support Circle?

• Brings together people who are going through or have gone through similar experiences.

• Engaging discussions about care-giving, wellness and stress management.

• Share personal experience, feelings and coping strategies.

• Participating helps feeling less lonely, isolated or judged. Reducing distress, depression, anxiety or fatigue

• Take-home resources related to the group’s needs

Eligibility

• MCFD Out Of Care Caregivers

• Experiencing challenges and struggles in their caregiver role

• Ability to attend monthly Groups

Having someone to talk to and support me has been a lifesaver.

– Out of Care Options – Indigenous Participant