The Dollars and Sense Day special event for families on November 8 will showcase many organizations and agencies that have something to offer families to help them live a full, rich life while easing the financial squeeze they face.
There is a wide range of supports that families are entitled to, but it can be challenging to find out about all of them.
“Our idea is to bring as much information as possible together on one day, under one roof, to make it easy for families to access — everything from subsidies, to employment and training opportunities, to free children’s programs and services, tax benefits, free government money for their child’s education, or just how to eat well with less money,” said Penny Tees, the Slocan Valley early childhood coordinator who is co-hosting the event.
Parents will be able to browse the displays, chat with staff from various organizations, get support to fill out subsidy forms, and take home resources. There will be stories, some simple art and playdough activities for the children, and a free, nutritious lunch will be provided — even some great door prizes.
Funding for this free special event was part of the first round of granting provided by the Slocan Valley Legacy Fund. It aligns nicely with Financial Literacy Month in Canada, said co-host Alison Salo, the Slocan Valley CBAL coordinator.
“We know families face the pressures of high housing and childcare costs, student loans, limited employment, and the general expenses of raising a family, so we are taking a very broad view that includes all aspects of making ends meet, while still enriching your family’s life. Understanding how to use the resources available to you is financial literacy.”
A showcase like this has never happened in the Slocan Valley, so it will be a new opportunity for families. Dollars and Sense Day runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Passmore Hall on Friday, November 8. All families are welcome. For more information, contact Penny at 250-226-7605 or Alison 250-359-6887.