A $10,000 donation to Lethbridge Family Services will go toward food, housing assistance and youth programming for vulnerable newcomer families in the city.
The funding was donated by the Frank Flaman Foundation, with support from Southland Trailers, to assist the agency’s immigrant services department. The programs support families facing food insecurity and unstable housing while also expanding activities for girls and young women.
According to LFS officials, part of the donation will fund grocery parcels for families struggling to afford food as well as modest rent supplements for those dealing with rising housing costs. The support is intended to help families remain stable during periods of transition so they can focus on finding work, improving language skills and adjusting to life in Canada.
The remaining funding will support the LFS Girls Group, a community program that provides a safe space for girls aged 10 to 18 on Friday afternoons — a time organizers said youth can be especially vulnerable to isolation or negative influences.
The program offers activities such as science and technology exploration, creative arts, sports, field trips and journalling, along with mentorship and leadership development opportunities.
In a statement, southern Alberta regional manager with the Flaman Group of Companies, Nigel Atwood, said the foundation aims to support the communities where its employees and customers live and work.
“When businesses make giving part of their culture, it strengthens the entire community,” Atwood said.
He added the organization is proud to partner with Lethbridge Family Services on programs supporting families.
Director of operations at Southland Trailers, Scott Sailer, said supporting youth development is an investment in the city’s future.
“The future of Lethbridge depends on the opportunities we create for young people today,” Sailer said in a statement.
