The Town of Bashaw gave its approval to the proposed budget of a major social services organization in the community. The decision was made after a presentation at the Jan. 14 regular meeting of council.

Bashaw & District Support Services (BDSS), represented by Executive Director Christine Buelow, presented its 2026 budget to council, including a request for $89,040 in funding from the town. It was noted BDSS is a non-profit charitable organization committed to supporting and implementing social programs for individuals, families and the community. It was said that BDSS works towards supporting the well-being of all citizens; communities need a centralized source to facilitate participation in community issues, contribute resources and access services. Buelow’s report noted that through the use of community development practices, promotion of volunteerism and facilitation of relationships, a community will come together to establish service needs and resources to meet those needs.

Buelow began her presentation by stating the amount of town funding requested is the total amount, which also includes $10,000 from Camrose County.

The budget breakdown provided by Buelow stated that BDSS projects its 2026 expenses to be $323,276, while its expected revenue will be $234,236. The town funding requested, $89,040, is the same figure as 2025.

She further broke her budget request down into distinct parts, including administration, Meals on Wheels, Community Wellness Program and social programming for youth.

The report also listed various BDSS offerings in the community by their method of funding, and it was noted some FCSS-funded programs delivered included Roots of Empathy, Tools for Schools and information and referral.

FCSS-contracted services included the Bashaw Youth Drop-in Foundation, while non-FCSS-funded programs included Generations Daycare, preschool, community outreach and Preschool Plus, as well as assistance for projects like the Bashaw Regional Wellness Initiative and Bashaw Medical Clinic.

Non-FCSS-contracted services that BDSS is involved with include the Bashaw Bus Society, Bashaw Food Bank and Bashaw Adult Learning Council.

During discussion, BDSS’ youth involvement was the topic of many comments. It was noted the Bashaw Youth Centre is very popular and valued for its help in boosting self-esteem, friendship and acceptance in the community. As well, it was noted the youth centre has a good reputation among Bashaw’s younger residents.

It was noted the youth centre’s summer programming is invaluable to working families who needed to find activities for their kids while school was out; some activities last summer included a visit to the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller and a field trip to the zoo.

Mayor Cindy Orom summed up how councillors described the youth centre. “It’s just such a core part of Bashaw,” said the mayor.

Coun. Kyle McIntosh noted that it’s easy to look at the budget impact of BDSS’ work, but people should also keep in mind the large number of programs and services the organization has a hand in.

After the presentation, councillors considered the budget request. Chief Administrative Officer Theresa Fuller noted that if councillors approved the BDSS request, it would be included in upcoming 2026 town budget discussions.

Councillors unanimously approved the BDSS 2026 budget.