At New Westminster Family Place, we know that sometimes the hardest part is walking through the door for the first time. Whether you’re a new parent looking for a moment of adult conversation, a newcomer searching for community, or a caregiver hoping to support your child’s development, that first “hello” can lead to something wonderful. This past quarter — January through March, 2025 — we’ve had the joy of watching hundreds of those stories unfold.
Over 60 days and 358 hours of programming across 6 locations, we welcomed 587 new participants and made 5,117 empowering engagements with families across New Westminster and the Lower Mainland. Our programming was full of meaning, connection, and care.
A Place for Every Family
This quarter saw the exciting launch of our new Monday morning drop-ins at Queensborough Community Centre, adding to our vibrant mix of locations. Between 73 drop-ins at Quayside, 49 at Century House in Uptown, and these new Queensborough sessions, our drop-ins averaged 13.8 participants per hour — a sign that these spaces are meeting a real need.
Among the highlights of our programming was the Thrive Together Playgroup, a weekly space for families with extra support needs. Delivered in partnership with Kinsight, this playgroup offers a more intimate, understanding setting where children can thrive and parents can share, learn, and be supported by both professionals and peers.
Another beautiful addition this quarter was Tigrinya Storytime, offered in partnership with the New Westminster Public Library. These sessions created a bridge for Tigrinya-speaking families, allowing children to hear stories in their home language and families to feel seen and celebrated.
Food, Friendship, and Shared Moments
Food, Friendship, and Shared Moments
We always say that sharing a meal is one of the easiest ways to connect — and this quarter, we saw that in action through our shared lunches with our Eat, Play, Love program, where families came together for nourishing food and even better company. We hosted a fun Taco Day, a build-your-own Sandwich Bar, and a heartwarming Potluck, where families brought dishes that represented their cultures and homes
These meals weren’t just about food — they were about creating moments of belonging and celebration. We saw new friendships spark across tables, parents trading tips while toddlers munched happily nearby.
Support That Meets You Where You’re At
Sometimes, families need more than just a welcoming space — they need guidance, answers, or someone to listen. This quarter, our team provided 32 hours of one-on-one time to 53 individuals, offering personalized support for everything from navigating early childhood challenges to connecting with school, housing or health resources.
We also brought 11 expert guests into our programs — from speech and language pathologists to public health nurses to settlement workers. Together, they offered 56 hours of on-site support, answering questions, leading workshops, and helping families feel more confident and informed.
Across all of this, we shared 768 resources with families — referrals, handouts, and warm introductions to additional community services.
Building Something Beautiful Together
Behind each number is a real person — a caregiver who found a place to exhale, a toddler who found a favourite toy, a parent who finally got to say “me too” when someone else shared their struggles. Through 6 parenting programs, 11 baby group sessions, and every moment in between, we’re seeing the seeds of connection grow into something lasting. It starts with one visit, one conversation, one act of kindness — and grows from there.
We’re so proud of what we’ve built together this quarter. And we can’t wait to see what’s next. Thank you for being part of our story. 💛