Family Support Institute BC

09/01/2026

Did you know that FASD is one of the most common neurodivergent conditions in Canada?

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is at least 2.5 times more common than Autism. Yet, it is often underdiagnosed, conversations around alcohol use during pregnancy remain stigmatized, and populations with higher rates of FASD are often underserved and undersupported by the systems we live in.

FASD is not an individual issue; it is a structural one. Increased prenatal alcohol exposure happens in environments where parents and caregivers are not properly supported, including lack of safe housing, lack of access to healthcare, or cycles of poverty.

Families need support, not shame or guilt. September is FASD Awareness Month, and this year's theme is “Everyone Plays a Part: It Takes a Community.” This highlights the power of collective support in creating a society where people with FASD and their families can thrive.

Learn More:
https://familysupportbc.com/toolkits/what-is-fetal-alcohol-spectrum-disorder/

08/31/2026

Dear PLAN Family, It is with deep sadness that we share that Pat Tesan, a pioneer parent and long time member of the PLAN family, passed away peacefully Friday, August […]

08/31/2026

Lovely opportunity for Surrey caregivers of youth 12-24 years

🥟 Caregiver Dumpling Making Group 💛
Caregivers, take a moment to slow down, connect, and recharge. Join us for an afternoon of dumpling making, shared stories, and community connection in a welcoming and supportive space.
📅 Friday September 4th
⏰ 11:30 AM- 1:00 PM
📍 Foundry Surrey Central
👥 For caregivers of youth ages 12–24
✨ No cooking experience needed, just come as you are
This group is all about connection, creativity, and taking time for yourself while sharing food and conversation with others who understand.
📝 Registration:
📲 FoundryBC App
🏢 Foundry Surrey Central front desk
📞 604-677-4983
Spaces may be limited, register early!

08/31/2026

Do you know who the members of your child's school team are? It's important to build a strong relationship with them—after all, you are working together to ensure your child with support needs thrives in a learning environment often not designed around them.

As you navigate the school year, you may be frequently corresponding with your child's school team, from teachers to principals, counselors to specialists. Our 4-part Toolkit resource on School Meetings offers a step-by-step guide through this process.

In this Toolkit set, you will learn about:
Part 1: How to Write an Email to Call a Meeting
Part 2: Preparing for Your Meetings
Part 3: How to Run a Productive Meeting
Part 4: What to Do After the Meeting

Start Here: https://familysupportbc.com/toolkits/school-meetings-how-to-write-an-email-to-call-a-meeting/

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Toolkit Resources are practical, step-by-step guides on specific topics around navigating the disability world. Toolkits are arranged by category and accessible on web or in PDF format.

08/31/2026

Dear friends of Family Support Institute and everyone who knew and loved Pat,

Pat's Celebration of Life will be on:
Friday, September 4, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm

We will be gathering at:
Maillardville Community Centre - Multipurpose Room 1
1200 Cartier Ave
Coquitlam, BC V3K 2C3

There is underground parking at back of building off Proulx Lane.

RSVP link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/KbJA19t2wj

08/30/2026

FSI Weekly News: Week of Aug 31 -

Family Hangouts are a safe space for families and caregivers to come together for support, inspiration and troubleshooting. Sessions are either themed or open for general conversation.

08/29/2026

First Nations students can apply for the Jordan's Principle Scholarship by September 7

Just over a week left to apply for the Jordan's Principle Scholarship! Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity available to First Nations students! Apply here: https://fncaringsociety.com/awards-scholarships/jordans-principle-scholarship

08/29/2026

Reading Circle of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission for Kelowna families

08/28/2026

Struggling to communicate with your doctor, social worker, or child's teacher? If you have a child or family member with a disability and need language interpretation support, we may be able to help!

We offer live (video or phone) language interpretation for disability-related meetings and appointments. Our services are FREE to families in BC. Available in 10 languages, with more coming soon!

Request Now: https://familysupportbc.com/interpreter-services/

08/27/2026

Siblings Supporting Siblings is excited to launch this Fall! Our new Family Hangout recognizes the important role that siblings play in the lives of those with disabilities. We will meet every other week on Thursday evenings, on Zoom.

This group is a safe space for siblings of someone with disabilities and support needs. Here, we connect over our unique and diverse lived experience of advocacy and caregiving, which can include parentification, "glass child" issues, sacrifices, and looming discussions about future planning.

Some of us are full-time caregivers, some of us are part-time advocates, and some of us are still figuring out where we’re going to fit into the picture. Facilitated by a sibling, this Family Hangout is a safe space to seek support, resources, and comfort from your peers. This group is geared toward adults and older youth.

If what you read resonates, you are welcome here! Come join us next month for our first meeting, September 24, 2026, from 7:00 to 8:30 pm!

Register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/UZUmHt2nT1ehMSifg4__kw

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Family Hangouts are a safe space for families and caregivers to come together regularly for support, inspiration, and troubleshooting. They are held online on Zoom.