FWCHerstoryGraphic

This infographic is a timeline that gives 9 highlights of the Fernie Women’s Centre’s history. The Centre was founded in 1979. Shortly afterwards, Dandy Lion Daycare, it’s first non-profit childcare centre, was opened. That was followed by the opening of the first Safehomes network in the Elk Valley, which provided emergency shelter for women and children fleeing abusive situations. In 1998, Chrysalis House, an 11-unit second stage housing program, opened. It was managed by the newly formed Elk Valley Family Society. Four years later, in 2002, the Columbia Basin Family Resource Society was founded to further support community services. The years that followed saw FWC work with the MLA and Municipal politicians to start a public transit system in the Valley. FWC also helped with the development of the City of Fernie’s Official Community Plan and became the founding members of the Affordable Housing Partnership working to develop an affordable accessible senior’s housing complex. Later, FWC began offering programs for food security and the exchange of clothing and household goods. Overall, FWC celebrates over 44 years of being a resource for community investment, advocacy and engagement in the Elk Valley. Over 1000 community members benefit from the 11 programs they oversee. Current information about these programs can be found on their programs page.