What’s New at the “Project”

By Penny Coates

As the most recent addition to the James Bay Community Project (JBCP), let me begin by introducing myself. My name is Penny Coates and I am the new manager of Family and Community Services (F&CS).  I would like to thank everyone who has welcomed me so warmly to the James Bay community since I joined JBCP in late August.  Hopefully my professional background in early childhood education, non-profit management, social planning and community development will prove to be a valuable asset, as we strive together to create a healthy, caring and vibrant community for all who live, work and play in the neighborhood.

In my new role I will be providing ongoing support to JBCP's family, seniors, health promotion/wellness, volunteer, and thrift store programs.  In addition to these programs the F&CS staff and I have been asked to explore opportunities for new or expanded partnerships that will increase JBCP's capacity to meet the diversity of community needs in James Bay and the surrounding area.  Several new initiatives are already underway:

• A new partnership with the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA) will create exciting opportunities for New Canadian seniors and long term residents from James Bay to become acquainted and share experiences.  The first inter-cultural exchange event is being held Saturday, November 14^th.  If you would like to be involved, please contact Lisa Gleinzer 388-7844 Ext. 310.  We will be welcoming 20 - 30 seniors who have come to Canada from around the globe and we would love to have at least 20 James Bay seniors as hosts and hostesses.
• As you know our Family Resource Program offers drop-in play sessions at various times during the week. There is no need for advance registration; if you and your children need to get out of the house, just come and visit.  We would love to see you. Starting October, we are adding a Friday morning drop-in for families with children less than five years old, so Moms, Dads, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles ... be sure to bring your little ones and join in the fun.
• The ever popular Blood Pressure Clinic on the first Wednesday afternoon of the month, now has expanded to include diabetic foot care and prescription medicine reviews.  You don't need to be a patient at our Health Centre to benefit - anyone is welcome.
• Our Community Closet thrift store, located in the lower level of the James Bay mall, is hoping to have a stylish "plus section" in time for Christmas.  We are looking for donations of gently used, current style, ladies' clothing in size 16+.  Please drop off donations at JBCP or at the store during regular operating hours.  Also, if you have past retail experience and are interested in volunteering, we are always looking for people to join our Community Closet team.  Do keep Community Closet on your list of "must -visit" stores.  There are great buys for bargain prices and in turn, the profits allow JBCP to offer you free or low cost programs. 

JBCP is a "happening place" due to the enthusiasm and efforts of our amazing volunteers and caring staff. If you haven't visited recently, drop by.  I would love to meet you and hear your ideas about ways that Family and Community Services at JBCP can add even more value to this "gem" of a neighborhood.

NOTE: No doubt Beacon readers will have seen recent announcements in the media regarding VIHA funding cuts to many organizations. The James Bay Community Project has received notification of cuts to our nursing and, family and volunteer programs. Rest assured our board and staff will be doing everything possible to ensure the viability of your James Bay Community Project and we will continue to keep you informed.