North Flats Neighbourhood Association provides a vital service to families

By Letter to the Editor on January 8, 2020.

Medicine Hat needs more organizations like the North Flats Neighbourhood Association, not less.

Our family’s eldest daughters have been attending NFNA’s summer programming for the past three years. As a low-income family, we struggle with the financial costs associated with enrolling our children in most forms of local programming since we often fall into the categories of (1) “unable to afford local arts/educational programs” and (2) “earns above financial assistance threshold.” As this is our personal situation, there are very few activities we can afford for our children to participate in since many local programs and activities range from $100-$200, or more, per week.

Â As parents, my wife and I feel we can trust the NFNA and their staff. We’re grateful that our children excitedly told us about their leaders, learning that they were kind and respectful individuals who not only made our daughters feel welcome, but also safe, improving their mental and emotional well-being. Through attending the program our daughters have made friends and peer connections, have had opportunities to improve their literacy and numeracy skills, have developed life skills such as being accountable, telling the truth, and taking responsibility for their actions. They’ve also participated in anti-bullying activities, attended recreational events such as Medicine Hat Mavericks games and received food on occasion as well.

Â Through their summer programming, the NFNA has provided us with assistance in being able to offer something fun and enjoyable for our children (rather than simply staying home for the entirety of the summer). As residents of the River Flats, the programming location is not only easily accessible, but easily walkable, and we’ve always been able to quickly get in touch with the programmers whenever necessary. Since the program was externally financed, it alleviated any monetary concerns we had regarding enrolment fees, allowing us to use our remaining finances to participate in other events and activities within the community of Medicine Hat, enabling us to support our local businesses and economy. The NFNA’s summer programming has also helped with respite as we’ve been able to get other things done while our children have been cared for in a safe, welcoming environment.

Medicine Hat needs more organizations like the NFNA, not less. As such, we sincerely hope that funding for the NFNA is reinstated.