Yesterday was a special day at New Westminster Family Place: we welcomed the BC Minister of Children & Family Development, Jodie Wickens. Her visit gave us a chance to share the big challenges families face today: high costs, food access, and the housing crisis. We also had the chance to spotlight the essential, frontline support we provide.

How we tackle challenges to local families
Our mission is to support families with children aged 0-6. Life is tough for many, so we’ve stepped up. We increased our drop-in programs by 20%, started a new playgroup for kids with extra needs, and launched our Thrive Parents group, a monthly support group for parents with neurodivegent children. One of our programs we are particularly proud of is Eat, Play, Love—a lunch program that offers families a meal and a sense of community.
Our Family Free Store and free shelves at our drop-ins give families basic necessities. Thanks to support from MCFD, we can keep these programs going strong.
A special part of our conversation with Minister Wickens highlighted our targeted support for the Eritrean community. Our initiatives like the Tigrinya Story Time and the new Tigrinya storybook shelf at the New Westminster Public Library, the Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Program in Tigrinya, are highlights of that work. These programs give Eritrean families a space where they feel welcome and supported.
Early Years Touchpoints meet Government Frameworks
Minister Wickens understands how important early support is for children. We talked about how our work connects to the ministry’s larger plan for child well-being: the pathway to a comprehensive child well-being plan and outcomes framework. It’s great to know that the groundwork we do every day aligns with such significant, overarching goals.

It was such a great opportunity showcase the hard work and dedication of our team to someone who understands and appreciates the importance of what we do. As we continue to adapt and innovate in response to our community’s needs, moments like this remind us why our work matters. Government support helps us keep making a real difference for children and families.
We feel inspired and ready to keep going. Helping families is our mission, and we won’t stop!