At Kindred, we’re convinced the key to living well is healthy relationships with self, family, and others.  But relationships are complicated and sometimes we find ourselves in vulnerable places, disconnected from those who matter most.

Kindred’s purpose is to realize the power of human connection, and it shapes everything we do. Whether nuclear or chosen, family is the most important relationship in a person’s life. So, we invest in the special bond between children and those that care for them. We provide road maps toward healing when essential relationships are ruptured. And we understand that accessing timely mental health support can inspire confidence with self and others. Healthy human connection is possible, and together we can realize it.

Many of the family services we offer are located at Louise Dean Centre, a partnership between Kindred, Calgary Board of Education and Alberta Health Services. Louise Dean Centre breaks down barriers to education for youth who are expecting a child or parenting. At one convenient central location, young parents can access the academic, emotional, financial and early childhood supports they need to thrive. For more information, please call us at 403.777.7635.

Here is one family’s story:

Cat: “I am a recovering addict. In April, I will be sober two years. When I was in treatment, I met the former principal of Louise Dean Centre. When she heard I was a mom, she said I should register at Louise Dean. The school itself is super supportive. With all the one-to-one support, I’m getting the best grades I’ve ever had. I went from failing to getting 80s and 90s. But I wouldn’t be here today without the help I got from Catholic Family Service.

When I finished treatment, I had to leave the support home I was living in. I was looking at a homeless shelter, but then I found a little place to rent. I talked to my social worker at Kindred and she arranged for my damage deposit to be covered. The Learners Bursary is helping me cover expenses while I go to school. My daughter will soon be three and I am expecting a little boy now as well. I’m planning to graduate in 2019. The nice part is I can bring my baby to the Parent-Child Learning Centre here while I finish school.”

Jarrett: “I am a recovering addict, as well. We found each other at a Narcotics Anonymous meeting. Getting into a relationship is frowned on while you are in recovery, but we both wanted the same things in life: to be sober and have a happy family. We started hanging out together and now we are living together.

It’s scary being a younger person with a child, but knowing you have support is truly amazing. I am trying to be a good father figure to Cat’s little girl. To see a little person accomplish things and growing is so amazing. Kindred offers programs for dads, too. I want to learn everything I can to be a good father. I drive Cat every day to school and pick her up to go home. We’re getting married after she graduates.”