If the Peace Parent Link program is to remain open, it will need a new source of funding. Alberta’s Children’s Services Ministry is terminating the contracts of the 126 Parent Link province-wide, and they will expire on March 31, 2020. The Town of Peace River manages the program, which is run out of the Baytex Energy Centre.
Town of Peace River Director of Community Services, Tanya Bell confirmed to the Trending 55 Newsroom that even with the announcement of the non-renewal of the contracts, no one is in danger of losing their job at this time. “There are currently there are absolutely no impacts to operations. The program will be stable until the end of its funding cycle (On March 31st),” stated Bell. She also mentioned that the province has rolled out expressions of interest. “The Town of Peace River is actively pursuing that proposal process, and we will be providing a proposal to the province to maintain the service here in the community and our region.” Bell adds that from what she has seen, the province is seeking proposals that would provide three years of funding.
Bell is hopeful the program will continue due, in part, to Parent Link’s growth in October alone. “39 new members have registered along in October alone.” She also says that the program is a regional one, which includes communities like Fairview, Nampa, and as far east as Red Earth Creek.
