The Northern Family Support Program (NFSP) was established in 2012 through the vision and generous support of the Schwab family, IDL Projects, and IDL employees in collaboration with the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC).
Our story
For over a decade, the Northern Family Support Program (NFSP), has helped fill vital service gaps by offering meaningful, one-time support to hardworking individuals facing unforeseen challenges. The program also provides invaluable experiential learning opportunities for social work and business students at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), fostering a compassionate and supportive community across northern B.C.
The NFSP is a lifeline for those in need, helping them overcome difficult situations to lead proud, productive lives.
Examples of community support
NFSP offers assistance to individuals and families by covering essential needs, such as:
- Travel for medical appointments and surgeries
- Medical equipment and assistive devices
- Dental surgeries
- Emergency accommodations
- Winter tires and vehicle repairs
- Hearing aids
Our process
Each year from September to December, we accept referrals from individuals, families, and service providers throughout northern B.C.
- Confidential meeting: Individuals meet with a UNBC social work student, supervised by faculty.
- Collaborative planning: Social work and business students collaborate to create a personalized support plan.
- Execution: Students seek out necessary resources to support the individual.
Examples of Impact
Life-saving kidney transplant
A 47 year-old construction worker faced unexpected medical challenges, requiring hemodialysis and ultimately a kidney transplant. With NFSP’s financial support, he covered post-surgery costs, giving him a second chance at life.
Dental surgery support
A hardworking man diagnosed with sinus/throat cancer required dental surgery after treatment left him unable to eat solid foods. NFSP donors funded the surgery, helping him regain his quality of life.
Why support the NFSP?
Funding directly supports individuals and families who might otherwise fall through the cracks in our community's support system. Your gift will allow them to rebuild and thrive.
By supporting the NFSP, you:
- Impact the lives of community members who face unforeseen hardship.
- Help fill critical service and funding gaps in northern B.C.
- Support real-world learning for UNBC students.
- Make a difference that could impact friends, family members, or employees in your community.
Contact
For general inquiries, please email fsp@unbc.ca.
To make a donation, please email giving@unbc.ca.