The Ladysmith Resources Centre Association (LRCA) presented its 2023-2024 Annual Report to the Town of Ladysmith Council on Dec. 3, highlighting a year of milestones, expanded services and community support.
Executive Director Carmen Barclay delivered the report, discussing the organization’s key achievements.
The hiring of Barclay as executive director in January 2024 was one such milestone, as was completion of the Heart on the Hill subsidized housing project.
Heart on the Hill, a 36-unit subsidized housing initiative, celebrated its first full year of operations, providing stable housing to Ladysmith residents in need. LRCA housing support services also assisted families with rent, utilities, housing placements and BC Housing applications.
The LRCA offered shelter services at BC Housing’s Rialto building on First Avenue, providing a safe and respectful space for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The shelter continues to operate 24 hours a day and offers temporary accommodations, essential resources and pathways to stability.
Another standout success of the past year was the expansion of LRCA’s counselling programs. With leadership from Programs Manager Alan Jones, the volunteer counselling program has grown to include both Master’s-level student counsellors and retired professionals offering their expertise. Barclay announced the addition of a trauma counsellor — a first for Ladysmith — to meet critical mental health needs in the community.
“This is something that, as an ED, makes me extremely proud to be involved in this organization and in this community,” said Barclay.
In addition to welcoming Barclay in the executive director role, LRCA successfully filled two critical positions this year: a restorative justice coordinator and an additional victim services worker.
Ladysmith Victim Services Program provides 24/7 on-call and in-office crisis and trauma support to the communities of Ladysmith, Cedar, Cassidy, Stz’uminus, Thetis Island, Penelakut Island, Saltair and Chemainus. According to the report, “Our team works collaboratively with RCMP officers, schools, social workers and community members to respond to the needs of those who have experienced a trauma, been the victim of crime, lost a loved one, or are in crisis.”
The LRCA continued to see an increase in demand for food support services. The Ladysmith Food Bank added an additional operating day to meet community needs and grew to supply food to a total of 1,260 people in March 2024.
Youth programming was also a primary focus, with the LRCA expanding initiatives to foster inclusion and mental wellness under the banner of Family and Youth Support Services. Programs including Redefine and Shine, a therapeutic art group for LGBTQIA+ youth providing safe spaces for local youth.
The Dad’s Drop-In Program offered fathers a welcoming space to connect, share experiences and strengthen their parenting skills. Through informal gatherings, dads could access support, resources and a sense of community, helping them build stronger bonds with their children.
Family programs including Born Healthy and Adventures in Early Literacy continued to thrive, offering essential resources to parents and children.
When it came to supporting families during the holidays, the LRCA’s annual Toy Drive and Christmas Cheer campaign saw overwhelming community generosity.
“It’s pretty amazing to see the citizens of Ladysmith coming out in droves to support what’s going on here,” Barclay shared, reflecting on the Christmas initiatives.
The Senior Support Services program helped seniors access transportation, social connections and daily support, promoting independence and improving their quality of life.
Throughout her presentation, Barclay emphasized the importance of partnerships and community support in the LRCA’s success. From donors and volunteers to municipal partners, collaboration has been instrumental in delivering essential services to Ladysmith’s most vulnerable residents.
The report closed with an invitation to community members to join LRCA in making a difference.
“As we reflect on the accomplishments of the past year, we are reminded of the power of community and the impact we can make together. We invite you to join us in our mission to support and uplift the vulnerable members of our community. Together, we help build our thriving community.”
To donate or get involved, visit the Ladysmith Resources Centre Association website.
