JBCP: Back to Basics

James Bay Community Project

By Paula Greene

As the new school year starts it seemed timely to let you know what we have going on at the James Bay Community Project and to shed some light on what it is we do exactly.

We often hear…“You`re the James Bay what? Centre? Association? New Horizons? School?” or “Oh you just help seniors, right?” There are many wonderful James Bay services out there so no wonder it gets a little confusing at times.

In conjunction with our neighbours, the James Bay Community Project (JBCP) aims to meet the needs of the local community, but for some of our services we also work with people living in the City of Victoria, Oak Bay, and Fairfield. We offer programs to children, families and youth, as well as seniors and adults with disabilities.

So here’s a snap shot of what we offer and where we hope you find something for yourself or if you see a gap, let us know. We always want to hear from you.

Family Resource Centre: A friendly and welcoming space for parents and their children aged 0-5yrs.

Some of the groups you can attend during the week are: Creative Play drop-in, Toddler Time drop-in, Welcome Play Group, and the Mother Goose Program.

Contact: Nancy Smith Family Centre Coordinator 250.388.7844 ext313

Youth Services: Offering counselling and support to families and children from birth to age 19 living in James Bay, Fairfield, Oak Bay, and the City of Victoria.

The Family Counsellor provides 1:1 counselling, Triple P Parenting, and outreach to families with children up to age 10.

Contact: Barbara Anderson 250.388.7844 ext312

The Youth Outreach worker provides support, education, group work, mediation, and information for youth aged 7- 19.

Starting September 21 Cool Cues, a social skills program for ages 8-10.

Contact: Janessa Serediuk 250.388.7844 ext314

Seniors and Adults with Disabilities There are three programs that offer services to seniors and adults with disabilities to enable them to continue living independently at home. Services include driving, gardening, companionship, dog walking, and shopping. (For a full list of services contact the individual program coordinator).

If you are a low income senior or adult with disabilities who lives independently in James Bay, you can access JBCP’s Outreach and Volunteer Services. The outreach worker will assess the needs of an individual and then match volunteers to provide services.

Contact: Noriko Oka 250.388.7844 ext. 318

If you are a low income senior or adult with disabilities who lives independently in any part of the City of Victoria other than James Bay, you can access Capital City Volunteers’ Outreach and Volunteer Services. The outreach worker will assess the needs of an individual and then match volunteers to provide services.

Contact: Kirsten Mueller 250.507.3972 ext. 310

If you are a senior who needs assistance with simple day-to-day tasks – including housekeeping – so that you can continue to live independently in your home anywhere in the City of Victoria or in Oak Bay, you can access the services of the Better at Home program. These services are on a fee-for-service basis (sliding scales can apply).

Contact Jennifer Tessier 250.388.7844 ext. 334

Community Groups and Volunteer Services

There are many wonderful volunteer opportunities at JBCP. There really is a place for everyone to give back, learn a new skill or share you talents.

Contact: Lisa Gleinzer 250.388.7844 ext308

Every week we host free or by donation groups and services such as the Blood Pressure Clinic, Acupuncture and Meditation, Yoga, Qi Gong and Reiki. For a full calendar of events and to find out more about these services visit www.jbcp.bc.ca or email askus@jbcp.bc.ca or phone 250.388.7844.

James Bay Community Project is a vibrant busy place and we offer you a warm invitation to visit us and find a welcome place for you and your family.