Family Resource Centre
About
It truly does take a village to raise a child. With that in mind, the East Preston Family Resource Centre began our journey in 1993, by simply offering parenting and information classes in the community. Since then, we’ve planted roots and grown into one of East Preston’s busiest centres, with programming for those from ages 0 to 99. We believe that healthy and happy families create healthy and happy communities, and we develop our programming based on what’s needed and wanted by community members. From pre and post natal classes, to youth groups, family and parenting workshops and everything in-between, the Family Resource Centre offers a wide range of programs and services that are welcoming and inclusive.
Although we operate under the umbrella of the East Preston Day Care Centre, we operate out of a separate building and are open to anyone who may want to access our resources, both in and surrounding the community of East Preston, as well as all of HRM. Many of our service offerings are unique, and therefore beneficial, to a wide group of people. We’re highly engaged in our surrounding communities, and are often able to direct you towards other resources and organizations if you’re looking for something specific.
For a schedule of our upcoming workshops, classes, and groups, please visit our events page. To learn more about our services and programs, or to register, please contact us today.
Services and Programs
Pre and Post Natal Classes
Parents-to-be and new parents, this is the group for you! We want you and your little one to have the best start possible to your exciting new life chapter. Open to both mama’s and dada’s-to-be, our free 10-week pre-natal class will tell you everything you need to know before your newborn arrives. Our post-natal classes offer things like family events and outings, nutrition workshops, fitness/walking/yoga events, crafts, and other activities. To see upcoming classes, please visit our calendar, or contact us to learn more!
Parenting Journey
Parenting Journey offers free in-home support for families with children age 3-16. We recognize the important role that parents, friends, and community play in the lives of children and youth, and offer one-on-one support to build on family strengths and focus on desired outcomes for the future. All home visits are scheduled at a time that works best for you and your family, and are kept strictly confidential between you and your in-home visitor. This program is free and voluntary, and support is offered both short term and long term. Please contact us for more information.
African Nova Scotian Parenting Journey
The African Nova Scotian Parenting Journey Program offers free in home support to families with children ages 3-16. This program is designed specifically to assist African Nova Scotian Families living in Dartmouth East, Cherry Brook, and Preston Areas. Families decide what they need support with, and you and your home visitor create a plan to move toward change and reaching those goals. The program is completely voluntary, and uses a collective approach to promote the healthy growth and development of children/youth and their families. Please contact us for more information.
Healthy Beginnings: Enhanced Home Visits
Together with your in-home worker, you can build confidence in your parenting choices. Your in-home worker can answer questions on how to care for your new baby, tell you what to expect as your child grows and changes, and help respond to any specific scenarios you and your family might be facing. Every family is unique, and your home visitor will respect your family’s way of doing things. Together you will explore the things you do well as a parent and build on them. To learn more, please contact us today!
Youth Program
Youth Outreach
The Preston Youth Outreach Program provides supports to youth ages 16 -24 within their family and community. Areas of support include mentorship, advocacy (including, but not limited to, support with courts & legal system, schooling, and financial assistance) and accompaniment to appointments. We also offer employment support, education, health services, and family support. Contact us to learn more.
Family and Parenting Workshops
Our Family and Parenting Workshops are scheduled throughout the year, and include workshops such as Incredible Years, Parenting Behavioural Issues, Adult Classes, and much more. Classes are created based on need, and is open to anyone in the community who may be interested! To see our upcoming workshops please visit our events page, or contact us for more information.
Coffee and Chat
Our coffee and chat groups are open to all community members and fosters a sense of support and togetherness amongst peers. Topics range week to week, and are guided by what group members would like to discuss. Please check our schedule for upcoming coffee and chat groups!
We offer many other services and programs, such as:
- Free car safety checks (with a certified technician)
- Budgeting workshops
- School readiness programs
- Healthy cooking classes
- Food cupboard
- Clothing and toys
- Daddy and Me events
- Ladies Group Nights
- Holiday suppers and events
And more! Some of our workshops and events are based on demand, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. For a full schedule of our upcoming events, please visit our calendar.
Forms
East Preston Day Care and Family Resource Centre Community Workshops Registration Form »
East Preston Day Care and Family Resource Centre Community Workshop Evaluation Form »
East Preston Day Care and Family Resource Centre Youth Program Waiver »
Photo Permission for Youth Program »
East Preston Day Care and Family Resource Centre After School Program Registration Form »
East Preston Daycare and Family Resource Centre After School Program Agreement »
East Preston Day Care and Family Resource Centre Postnatal Registration »
East Preston Day Care and Family Resource Centre Prenatal Registration »