Dozens of families will be spared the tragedy of domestic violence thanks to a grant from the Envision Financial Community Endowment housed with First West Foundation.
Healthy Relationships and Stress Management is a program offered by Deltassist Family and Community Services to counsel people at risk for committing domestic violence.
“The people who contact us are looking for help,” says Doug Sabourin,executive director of Deltassist. “They realize that, without help, their level of violence will escalate. Early support and counseling makes life better for them, their spouse, their children and everyone around them.”
The Healthy Relationships and Stress Management program is offered free to people who struggle with anger management and violent tendencies. The 12 week program is conducted in a group setting with professional counselors, and includes a series of follow-up conversations to provide additional support if needed. In order to run the program, Deltassist brings in specially trained counsellors to work with the groups.
The program does not fall under provincially funded services, so Deltassist relies on organizations like Envision Financial and private donations for funding.
“Without companies like Envision, we wouldn’t be able to get these people the help they need to stop the cycle of violence,” adds Sabourin.
Established in 1996, the First West Foundation’s purpose is to support initiatives that enhance the quality of life in the communities served by First West Credit Union and to create capital for sustainable community support by encouraging philanthropy. Since inception, the Foundation has proudly distributed over $2 million in grants to charities. Envision Financial is a division of First West Credit Union.
“Deltassist programs make a real difference in the lives of people in our community,” says First West Foundation Chair Peter Podovinikoff. “We’re glad that our modest contribution can have such a positive impact on so many lives.“
A new group for Healthy Relationships and Stress Management will be starting soon. Anyone interested in more information about the group or to take part can call Deltassist at 604-594-3455. A preliminary interview is required before being accepted into the group.
“Deltassist is very thankful for Envision Financial, First West and other groups that support the social well-being of the community,” says Sabourin. “We couldn’t help as many people as we do without them.”
Since 1972, Deltassist Family and Community Services have helped thousands of families cope with personal and economic challenges. Now in its 40th year, Deltassist offers a full range of specialized services, including drug and alcohol counselling, suicide prevention and support for victims of violence.
There is also a range of support services for seniors, from buying and delivering groceries to picking up prescriptions. Services are provided free of charge, thanks to funding from the province, the United Way, the Corporation of Delta and generous support from business and private donations.
For more information, please access the Deltassist website at www.deltassist.com.