SANDRA M STANWAY
Brooks Bulletin
Representatives from federal and provincial agencies attended the annual SPEC Association annual general meeting.
The association, with its 26 languages spoken by its staff, is a hub of programs providing information, family supports and community connection.
Over half its funding, 57 per cent, is from the federal government while 26 per cent is from the province, 11 per cent is municipal grants, while the balance is fundraising and interest.
The 2024 budget was about $1.85 million with $1.79 in expenses.
The budget year ended with an $11,000 deficit, however, there was funding that was included that crossed fiscal years.
SPEC is home to a multitude of programs including services for newcomers such as settlement worker in school and home instruction for parents of preschool kids, Makerspace and FASD programs.
Grasslands superintendent Scott Brandt said he is grateful to SPEC for the settlement worker program.
“Our schools rely so heavily on our SWIS workers. The impact they provide every single day to our students and families is really special,” said Brandt.
“On behalf of all the schools in Grasslands it’s a benefit for your support and we’re very grateful.”
