It's a tall order to create a positive difference in tens of thousands of lives, and an even bigger endeavour to sustain social welfare solutions to help strengthen the community and contribute to its well-being for nearly 50 years.
However, approaching their milestone anniversary next year, these are exactly the outcomes Sunshine Coast Community Services Society (SCCSS) continues to achieve.
The largest non-profit on the Coast (85-plus professional staff and 100-plus volunteers), they provide support for everyone in the community at every life stage, from Bellies and Babies and their Infant Development program, to Better At Home, which allows seniors to remain independent in their homes.
By creating opportunities for people to achieve their full potential, SCCSS strives to build an engaged, healthy and thriving Coast. They provide services through more than 30 programs that support pregnant moms and new parents, families, children, youth, adults and seniors through crisis response, support programs, housing and advocacy.
"We're an essential service that contributes significantly to the health of community members and the community as a whole," says Catherine Leach, executive director, SCCSS.
"We've had so many accomplishments over the years, but two that stand out most to me include the establishment of Yew Transition House and Arrowhead Clubhouse."
Building Together project, new Community Services hub
In an effort to develop long-term and sustainable solutions to help address poverty, homelessness, hunger and crime, the new Building Together development will include 34 affordable housing units above two floors of crisis response, support and prevention program, and will contribute positively to the community's well-being.
Leach is quick to acknowledge, "The Building Together project will be a game changer for this community."
"In addition to providing much needed long-term affordable housing for female youth aging out of care, elders, women and women with children in a safe and inclusive space, it's the Community Services hub that will address numerous neighbourhood safety concerns, create spaces for community to come together to build connections, and provide services to vulnerable under-resourced folks, all along the coast."
"We have secured more than 80% of the funding, but we need the community's help to get this life-changing project over the finish line."
How you can make a difference
Donating a one-time contribution can make a huge difference, even a modest amount, but the benefits are even greater when you make a monthly donation.
"Monthly donations offer us a consistent funding source, enabling us to strategize and implement long-term projects," explains Leach. "By distributing donations throughout the year, it simplifies budgeting for donors while amplifying their impact."
Carey Rumba, program manager, Community Action & Engagement (CAE), adds, "Particularly during the holidays, when community needs tend to rise, our CAE programs and the Food Security and Justice program are dedicated to assisting participants by providing resources for free or low-cost community meals and events, warm clothing, and nutritious food."
You can support the Food Bank in a variety of ways, with a monetary or non-perishable food donation, or organize a food drive or a fund-raising event.
"It's a proud moment to be part of an organization that has responded to the needs of this community for 50 years," admits Leach.
"The fact that we're incredibly supported speaks to how caring the community is—making contributions of time, volunteering or working, and providing donations to ensure services are available when people need us most, at times of crisis, and when there is nowhere else to go."
For more information, to get involved and to donate, visit sccss.ca.