Vernon Drop-In Programs

The Aboriginal Infant and Early Childhood Development (AIECD) program is a free, family-centered initiative for children aged 0–6 and their families. It focuses on supporting early learning and development while celebrating Aboriginal culture. Families can enjoy hot lunches, storytelling, playtime, and cultural activities, along with access to workshops, immunizations, and dental clinics. It's a welcoming space where children can grow socially, emotionally, and spiritually, while parents connect with their community and access valuable resources.

The Affordable Access Program helps families enjoy recreational activities at a lower cost. It offers a 25% discount on public swim, drop-in skating, and fitness gym passes for individuals with permanent disabilities. Families receiving financial assistance from provincial or federal programs can also qualify for up to a 75% discount on select activities, including public swimming, skating, shinny, and drop-in sports. This program ensures everyone can stay active and have fun without breaking the budget.

BounceBack® is a free skill-building program designed to help adults and youth 15+ manage low mood, mild to moderate depression, anxiety, stress, or worry. Delivered online or over the phone with a coach, you will get access to tools that will support you on your path to mental wellness.

Kids in Control offers free education and support to children between the ages of 8 and 13 who have a parent living with mental illness. The children meet for one and half hours once a week for eight consecutive weeks.

The CCRR is a service for Families and Child Care Providers. Child Care Resource and Referral work with the North Okanagan communities to promote quality, inclusive child care services that meet the needs of families and promote the healthy development of children.

At the Family Resource Centre, they offer an extensive range of family and parent support groups. Their groups have an educational format that provides a safe and welcoming space for those participants who are new to group-style learning.

The Family Support Institute (FSI) is a provincial organization committed to providing culturally-sensitive, accessible and free support to families who have a child or family member with a disability, with or without a diagnosis. FSI offers family-to-family mentorship, support groups, training, and online resources.

The Literacy Society of the North Okanagan is a community-focused organization dedicated to improving literacy for all ages through innovative programs, partnerships, and events. Their initiatives include providing books for babies and preschoolers at immunization clinics, organizing Story-Window Walks during Family Literacy Week, and supporting financial literacy through workshops and resources. They also connect with the community via committees like the Early Learning Action Team to address literacy gaps and evolving needs while participating in local events like Canada Day and the Children’s Festival to promote learning and literacy.

The NONA Child Development Centre supports families in the North Okanagan with programs like the Infant Development Program for children aged 0–3 with developmental delays, and the Family Support Program, connecting families with resources and parenting strategies. They also offer the Supported Child Development Program, aiding children aged 0–12 in licensed childcare settings, and Autism Services for youth up to 19, focusing on individualized intervention plans. These services aim to enhance children's abilities and help them thrive in the community.

The North Okanagan Friendship Centre Society (NOFCS) in Vernon, provides culturally focused health and social programs for families. Key services include the Aboriginal Infant and Early Childhood Development program for children aged 0–6, the Aboriginal Supported Child Development program for extra assistance in community settings, and the Family Support Program, which offers parenting guidance and conflict resolution. They also operate the Vernon Youth Safe House for youth aged 13–18 in need of a secure place to stay, promoting family well-being and cultural connections.

NOYFSS provides counseling and support services to individuals and families in our community through a variety of community-based and residential programs free of charge. They are wheelchair accessible.

The Vernon Library of the Okanagan Regional Library is a vibrant community hub with something for every age group. Little ones can join in on Baby Time, PJ Story Time, French Story Time, and more, while older kids and teens have access to engaging activities like Lego sessions, 3D crafting, and Coding Club. The library also supports newcomer families through programs such as the Niteo Family Reading Program and homework help.

StrongStart is a free school-based early learning program offered on school days. Your child will have free time to play games, read books, create a craft, participate in storytime where they will sing songs, and exercise during gym time (where applicable).