Blog

After 18 years as the leader of Community Financial Counselling Services (CFCS) in Winnipeg, Executive Director John Silver, is retiring from a career of outstanding service to the community.

An unwavering force for good, John has led the CFCS team with courage, empathy, determination, and integrity. Under John’s visionary leadership, CFCS enhanced and expanded a range of financial empowerment programs designed to reduce poverty and increase the financial capacity of all Manitobans, all longstanding issues of equity that were only exacerbated during the pandemic.
 

June is National Indigenous History Month, a time meant to reflect on the history, heritage and rich diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across Canada. It is also a time to honour and celebrate the contributions of Indigenous peoples across the country. For many working with Indigenous communities it serves an additional purpose in acknowledging both large and grass-roots organizations striving to create positive change in their communities and Canada at large. 

“What if Canada Revenue Agency decides to freeze my bank account and seize all my assets because I haven’t filed my taxes for so long?” Roger nervously asked the Financial Empowerment and Problem Solving (FEPS) worker at Agincourt Community Service Association (ACSA) during his initial call seeking help with his back taxes. Staff could see Roger was extremely nervous about his situation and knew it would only be possible to help him if they took the time to listen and to understand his story and concerns.

Carla Macias, an Ecuadorian who came to Canada in 2007, shares her journey of integrating into a new country, outlining the ups and downs of facing a world where not only learning a new language is key to success but financial literacy proves equally important. Carla articulates just how instrumental the Jane/Finch Centre was to helping her embark on a path to ensure financial success for herself and her family.

The Working Centre helps Nimaa, a single mother and newcomer to Canada, shed light on the unique financial challenges she experienced as an Arab woman and helps her secure benefits and financial support. Also, and importantly, they help her find the confidence to manage her own money and budget ensuring her future is brighter and full of possibility.