Explore Our Programs For Families

The Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society's Aboriginal Head Start Program (AHS) is a vital program that provides full-time childcare for Indigenous children ages 3-5 years old. The program offers a wide range of services that are designed to enhance the health, social, cultural and educational development of Indigenous children.

One of the primary objectives of the AHS program is to provide Indigenous children with a strong foundation in their cultural teachings. The program offers cultural teachings that include language and cultural activities that are rooted in the traditions and beliefs of Indigenous communities. This approach helps children to develop a sense of pride in their heritage and promotes cultural continuity.

The AHS program also offers a range of health promotion activities that aim to improve the physical, mental, and emotional health of Indigenous children. These activities include regular exercise, healthy eating, and emotional well-being sessions. 

The Family Support Program is a comprehensive program that offers a range of services to help families build stronger, healthier relationships. One of the key services offered by the program is parenting support, which is designed to provide parents with the skills and knowledge they need to raise healthy, happy children. This support includes one-on-one counselling, group sessions, and workshops that cover a range of topics such as effective communication, positive discipline, and child development.

In addition to parenting support, the Family Support Program provides counselling services to families dealing with substance or mental health issues. These services are designed to provide families with the support they need to overcome these challenges and build healthier, happier lives. The program offers individual counselling, group counselling, and support for families dealing with addiction or mental health issues.

Indigenous Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) is a program offered by the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society (VAFCS) that helps parents of Indigenous children aged 3-5 teach their children the skills and habits they need to be ready for school. Through weekly home visits, HIPPY provides parents with activity packets that are easy to use and designed to help their children develop essential skills.

The HIPPY program at VAFCS is specifically tailored to Indigenous families, with cultural teachings and activities that reflect Indigenous culture and traditions. Parents are provided with training and support to help them facilitate their child's learning and development, including access to resources and materials to support their child's education.

 Jordan's Principle is a program operated by VAFCS that provides vital services and supports to Indigenous children with complex medical needs or disabilities. The program is named in memory of Jordan River Anderson, a young Indigenous boy who was born with multiple disabilities and passed away in hospital at the age of five while the federal and provincial governments argued over who was responsible for his care.

The program ensures that all Indigenous children can access the medical, social, and educational services they need regardless of where they live in Canada or their family's financial situation. This includes funding for equipment, therapies, and other specialized services that may not be covered by existing programs.

To access the program, families can submit a request for services or supports through VAFCS. The program's team will work with families to assess their child's needs and identify appropriate services or supports. The program also provides advocacy and support to families who may be facing systemic barriers or discrimination in accessing services.

The VAFCS Summer Camp Program is an exciting and engaging program for Indigenous youth ages 6-12. This program provides a fun and safe environment for participants to connect with their culture and community, while participating in a variety of activities such as outdoor games, crafts, cultural workshops, and traditional teachings.

The program is designed to promote physical activity, socialization, and cultural expression, and provides a unique opportunity for youth to learn about their heritage and connect with other Indigenous youth.

The VAFCS Summer Camp Program is run by experienced and qualified staff who are dedicated to creating a positive and inclusive environment for all participants. The program runs for several weeks during the summer months and provides breakfast, lunch, and snacks to participants each day. Through the VAFCS Summer Camp Program, Indigenous youth have the opportunity to build friendships, develop new skills, and create lasting memories that will stay with them for years to come.