Friendship Center still waiting for budget details

Page 3

The Slave Lake Friendship Center hopes recent federal budget reductions don't cut into its core funding, says executive director Peggy Roberts.

She's still not sure if her center will be affected by the Feb.20 cuts because final figures haven't been given to the national friendship center office.

"Our staff is several years behind in cost-of-living increase," she said. "(And) we have two years left on our mortgage."

If the cuts hit the core budget, the staff of 12 will have to be reduced and priority will be given to paying off the mortgage.

The center needs more money, not less, because it also needs a referral worker. Many people patronize the center because they feel ill at ease dealing with government services, Roberts explained. Money is also needed to increase community projects, she added.

"We are fortunate we have a large hall where we can raise funding," she said.

Other friendship centers in rural parts of Camada will not be as lucky because fundraising will be much harder. Those that don't own their own building will be especially hard hit.

"Sooner or later it will affect operating budgets," said Roberts. At least with summer coming, there'll be summer employment program funding from the federal and provincial governments, which the center can tap.

"They help but not in the long run," Roberts said.