For Immediate Release

FAMILY SERVICES OF GREATER VANCOUVER AND VANCOUVER PUBLIC LIBRARY ANNOUNCE FAMILY DAY POP-UP ON FEBRUARY 12

Free event welcomes families and individuals from all walks of life to build stronger, more resilient communities

Vancouver, B.C. (January 30, 2025): Family Services of Greater Vancouver (FSGV) has partnered with Vancouver Public Library to host a Family Day pop-up for the second consecutive year. Taking place at VPL’s Central Library in downtown Vancouver on Wednesday, February 12 from 10am-2pm, the free drop-in event features short, interactive workshops, family-friendly activities, access to coaches and counsellors, and resources designed to support families and individuals from all walks of life, with the theme “You define family. We support it.”

While inflation has stabilized in recent months, food, shelter, and other household goods are still out of line with the cost of living for many families in the Lower Mainland. At the same time, each family has different needs shaped by factors like culture, economics, and access to supports. Family is not a narrow concept. This means that service providers and community organizations need to support families in ways that are as dynamic and diverse as they are. FSGV and VPL are doing exactly that. Through collaborations like the Family Day pop-up, these organizations are helping to amplify and distribute resources to a wider audience, contributing to stronger, more resilient communities.

FSGV and VPL’s Family Day pop-up will feature:

• FSGV financial coaches sharing ways families can improve their financial stability, navigate government benefits, and overcome barriers; and
• FSGV family counsellors and resource workers educating and recommending community supports and resources based on each family’s unique needs; and
• Free, fun, and engaging workshops and activities for parents and children, including colouring, dancing, and origami.

“Affordability is top-of-mind for all British Columbians. Yet, many families are facing the high cost of living while also navigating trauma, debt, violence, or systemic inequalities,” said Maria Howard, CEO of Family Services of Greater Vancouver. “We want people across the Lower Mainland to know that FSGV is here for families of all shapes and sizes with trauma counselling, our Financial Empowerment program, family counselling, and other supports. We want everyone to know that it’s okay to need a helping hand. You’re not alone.” 

“Libraries are an important resource for Vancouver families. By providing free access to a wide range of information, digital resources, and programs for all ages, we help make living in Vancouver more affordable,” said Dawn Ibey, Interim Chief Librarian and CEO of Vancouver Public Library. “Hosting events such as this with Family Services helps connect people with the support they need to address the unique challenges facing families today.” 

Since 1928, FSGV has offered a range of workshops, coaching, and other supports for families and individuals in areas such as financial help services, trauma counselling, parent support groups, parent-teen mediation, and more. VPL has been a cornerstone of the community, providing free programming, access to technology, and gathering spaces.

“We are grateful to Vancouver Public Library for their ongoing partnership as we launch our second Family Day pop-up,” said Maria Howard. “This collaboration is an impactful demonstration of the power of collaboration. Together, we can more effectively spread the word about the many ways we support families in our community. We want everyone to know that no matter who you call family, FSGV and VPL are here for you.”

FSGV and VPL’s Family Day pop-up is free and open to anyone. The event will take place at VPL’s Central Library located at 350 West Georgia Street, on Wednesday, February 12, from 10am-2pm. 

For more information, or to make a donation, visit www.fsgv.ca/family-day. Join the conversation online by following @vanfamservices and @vancouverpubliclibrary, and searching the hashtag #FamilyIs.

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About Family Services of Greater Vancouver

FSGV is a non-profit working to support and empower individuals, families, and communities. Our programs and services are designed to help people develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence to create positive change in their lives.

Specializing in crisis stabilization, counselling, and poverty reduction, our staff work from an evidence-based and trauma-informed lens to meet people where they’re at and get them where they want to be. www.fsgv.ca

About Vancouver Public Library

Vancouver Public Library (VPL) has been dedicated to meeting the lifelong learning, reading and information needs of Vancouver residents for more than 100 years. Our vision is an informed, engaged and connected city. Our mission is a free place for everyone to discover, create and share ideas and information. www.vpl.ca

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