In September 2004, City Council adopted the Municipal Social Policy Statement which guides the Social Development Department. The City of Medicine Hat Social Development department works with many local organizations to develop preventive social initiatives to enhance the well-being of individuals, families and the community.
Programs offered through the Social Development department include:
Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) & the City of Medicine Hat
In July 1996, The Preventive Social Services Act was passed by the Government of Alberta. The Act included 80/20 cost sharing between the Government of Alberta and municipalities or Metis Settlements of projects identified by the community. These projects must have an emphasis on non-profit social service programs and volunteerism. FCSS funding allocation is based on the population of each participating municipality, with an adjustment based on the median income level of each community.
The City of Medicine Hat has been involved with FCSS funding since the late 1970's. The City of Medicine Hat manages the FCSS funding and collaborates with agencies and the community to better understand social issues/needs and how best to respond to them.
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Out-of-School Child Care/Day Homes for Flexible Hour Care:
A subsidy is made available to families in need who wish to attend non-profit Out-of-School Summer Programs. Standards are agreed to and monitored. These programs include Day Homes (Flex hours/Summer Camp) at the Family YMCA, John Millar Day Care, and Out-of-School Care/Summer Camp at Medicine Hat College.
Community Development Grants:
The department offers consultative, administrative, and funding support to volunteer groups and agencies who endeavour to meet the social needs in the community.
Community Worker Project:
Three community workers, located and working out of Elm Street School, Southview School, and Medicine Hat High School, work with citizens and other community partners to build and sustain a vibrant, healthy, safe, and responsive community.
Counseling and Life Education Programs:
Offered through Medicine Hat Family Services.
Emergency Social Service Plan:
The Medicine Hat Regional Emergency Response Plan was formed by a common commitment to emergency preparedness. The City of Medicine Hat collaborates with various community agencies and groups to provide necessary services to carry out the Emergency Social Service (ESS) Plan.
The Social Development department (through the Social Development Advisory Board) provides funding to Transit Services, Senior Services, The Medicine Hat Salvation Army Family Support Centre (Homeless Shelter), Medicine Hat Youth Action Society, and Medicine Hat Regional Social Housing Authority. The City of Medicine Hat is currently working on a multi-faceted action plan to address the housing needs in the community.
Please contact the Social Development department:
City Hall
580 First Street SE
Medicine Hat , AB
T1A 8E6
General Inquiries: 403.529.8316
Fax Line: 403.529.8324
bonyar@medicinehat.ca