The Brandon Area Community Foundation (BACF) is pleased to announce a generous investment from Dr. Jay Winburn to Child and Family Services of Western Manitoba Foundation Inc., supporting prevention‑focused programs that strengthen children, youth, and families across the region. Facilitated through BACF, this contribution will enhance early intervention efforts that help families build stability, resilience, and long‑term well‑being.
A Commitment to Community Well‑Being
“Dr. Winburn’s generosity reflects the very heart of community philanthropy—supporting organizations that make a meaningful, lasting difference in people’s lives,” shared the Brandon Area Community Foundation. “We are honoured to help connect donors with opportunities that strengthen families and contribute to a healthier, more vibrant community.”
Arlene Stewart, Chief Executive Officer of Child and Family Services of Western Manitoba (CFSWM), emphasized the impact of this support.
“This investment allows us to continue meeting families where they are, with dignity, compassion, and practical support,” said Stewart. “By focusing on early intervention, family strengthening, and supports for children and youth, we can help improve long‑term outcomes and reduce the need for more intensive interventions later on.”
Dr. Winburn noted that his decision to invest in prevention‑focused services stems from a deep commitment to the well‑being of children and families.
“I believe strongly in supporting children early and ensuring families have the resources they need to thrive,” he said. “When we invest in prevention, we are investing in healthier futures—not only for individual children, but for our entire community.”
Areas of Impact
Funding from this contribution will support several key program areas:
• Family Resource Centres & Early Childhood Supports — Enhancing low‑barrier parenting programs, early learning opportunities, and safe, nurturing spaces for children to learn, socialize, and develop.
• Health, Well‑Being & Emergency Supports — Addressing immediate needs such as transportation, clothing, literacy resources, and other essentials that reduce stress and promote stability at home.
• Youth Mentorship & Transitions to Adulthood — Supporting youth and young adults, particularly those aging out of care, through mentorship, employment readiness, education and training supports, and assistance with housing and basic needs.
Strengthening Families Across Southwestern Manitoba
CFSWM serves thousands of children and families each year. In 2025, the agency received more than 2,500 referrals for service, with nearly 90% of children supported remaining safely in their own homes. Through strong partnerships with community organizations, CFSWM provides wraparound supports that help families build protective factors and improve long‑term outcomes.
“This kind of community generosity strengthens our ability to focus on prevention—helping families earlier, supporting parents more effectively, and creating safer, more stable environments for children,” Stewart added.
A Legacy of Community Leadership
For more than 60 years, the Brandon Area Community Foundation has worked to strengthen southwestern Manitoba by connecting donors with local needs and opportunities. Through endowment building, strategic granting, and community leadership, BACF supports initiatives that enhance quality of life and foster long‑term community well‑being.
Child and Family Services of Western Manitoba is a private, community‑based, non‑profit charitable organization dedicated to the safety, well‑being, and healthy development of children, youth, and families. With more than 125 years of service, the agency continues to work in partnership with families and communities to support future generations.
Together, these long‑standing organizations form a strong foundation for prevention‑focused work that creates lasting change for children, youth, and families across the region.