Town council approves community access card

By Deirdre Mitchell-MacLean Times Contributor

Following a presentation by Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) director Linda Bernicki, Strathmore town council has approved the adoption of a community access card for Strathmore residents.
“The community access card is an opportunity for low income residents to access Town of Strathmore programs and services at a reduced cost,” Bernicki told town council during the Sept. 18 meeting. “The access card would be used for drop in, registered or membership programs, but not for facility rentals.”
Programs such as swimming lessons, activities at the sports centre, family centre, any of the youth programs offered at the Youth Hub or FCSS would all be covered under the community access card.
“It’s going to be offered on a sliding scale, depending upon income and the number of people in your family,” Bernicki explained.
The cards will be valid for one year from the date of approval and they will accept applicants at any time.
Currently, the community access card will only be available for programs and services that are funded by the Town of Strathmore, but Bernicki said she hopes other programs and services in town will partner with them in the future.
Services such as the Handi-bus and the Strathmore Municipal Library are not yet covered by the community access card.
“It’s a great opportunity as a poverty reduction initiative, to assist people with low income for their mental health and wellness, and being to actively participate in programs and services they might not otherwise participate in,” Bernicki said.
The Town of Strathmore also offers an all access pass for individuals and families. Information is available on the town’s website (www.strathmore.ca).