Lakes District Family Enhancement Society

The Lakes District Family Enhancement Society (LDFES), operating under the business registration number 898283551RR0001, is a Canadian non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing the well-being of families, individuals, and children in the Lakes District. Established in 1992, the society has become a crucial hub for community development and sustainability.

Mission and Vision

The organization envisions a community where all families and individuals can thrive, with a focus on creating a food-secure environment. Their mission is built on practices that are supportive, reflective, and committed to enhancing family and community health outcomes[4].

Programs and Services

• Ashurst Children's Centre: A licensed daycare providing care for children from ages 0-6, emphasizing a healthy, safe, and inclusive environment for children and their caregivers[1].
• Food Centre: Offers hot meals, emergency food distribution, operates a Mobile Food Centre, and maintains a community garden to ensure food security across over a dozen communities in the Lakes District[4].
• Better at Home: This program supports older adults with non-medical daily tasks, facilitating independence and community connection[3].
• Community Connections: Works towards reducing the impacts of poverty on individuals and families by offering free support services[1].
• Healthy Start: Focuses on improving health and social development for pregnant women and their children through healthy child development initiatives, food-based learning, and community building activities[1].
• Education & Advocacy: Engages in poverty reduction and food security initiatives at provincial and local levels, providing training for service providers on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and trauma-informed practices[1].

Impact and Achievements

The Lakes District Family Enhancement Society serves a vast area, connecting annually with approximately 1200 individuals across the community[1]. Over the years, the organization has delivered substantial support, including thousands of meals to seniors and numerous food hampers to families in need[1]. The society collaborates with 24 community partners and operates on the territories of the Wet’suwet’en, Dakelh, and Nedut’en peoples[1]. As a registered charity, it relies on public generosity, local businesses, and grants to fund its comprehensive range of programs[1].