Evaluation teams have started the review process and will be following standard scoring criteria in their analysis of almost 400 proposals submitted by proponents across Alberta totalling more than $240 million.
FRNs will provide families with consistent access to supports and services and ensure Alberta’s youngest citizens and their families have the resilience and strength to navigate what the future brings.
“The number and diversity of submissions we have received is a reflection of the enthusiasm and excitement we are seeing with the new model. We are in a strong position to develop a network of high-quality services that make it easier and more efficient for Albertans to get the support they need.”
The proposals will be assessed based on organizational capacity, partnerships and collaboration, delivery plans, proposed budget and alignment to essential frameworks – particularly the Well-Being and Resiliency Framework and the miyo resource, which are based on world-leading brain science and cultural connection practice.
“We’ve heard from many community partners that this is the right thing to do and, while there will be some difficult decisions to make, we are confident this model will ultimately result in less overlap, less confusion and complexity, and ultimately better outcomes for children, youth and families across the province.”
The evaluation will be followed by a program development process, which will help determine service delivery structures in each of the network areas across Alberta. Applicants will be notified of their submission acceptance status in mid-March before current contracts and grants end on March 31. As evaluation and negotiations progress, some communities may begin to see changes. However, the ministry will not negotiate in public. When networks are ready to launch in April, communities across Alberta will be informed through government announcements with successful grant recipients.
Quick facts
- New Family Resource Networks will provide coordinated early intervention and prevention programs, will improve consistency in the service delivery approach and allow government to use taxpayer dollars more responsibly.
- Improved coordination will eliminate duplication of services while improving outcomes for children, youth and families.