About the Department

Vision, Mission, Goals and Guiding Principles

Vision

The Department of Family Services and Consumer Affairs is committed to improving the quality of life for Manitobans through furthering the social, economic and labour market inclusion of all citizens. We strive to ensure that diversity is respected, that people feel accepted and valued, and live with dignity and security. We work with the community to support Manitoba children, families and individuals to achieve their fullest potential.

Mission

Family Services and Consumer Affairs supports citizens in need to achieve fuller participation in society and greater self-sufficiency and independence. We help keep children, families and communities safe and secure and promote healthy citizen development and well-being.

Our Mission is accomplished through:

• provision of financial support;
• provision of services and supports that assist individuals improve their attachment to the labour market;
• provision of supports and services for adults and children with disabilities;
• provision of child protection and related services;
• assistance to people facing family violence or family disruption;
• provision of services and supports to promote the healthy development and well-being of children and families;
• assistance to Manitobans to access safe, appropriate and affordable housing;
• fostering community capacity and engaging the broader community to participate in and contribute to decision-making; and
• respectful and appropriate delivery of programs and services.

Goals

The Department of Family Services and Consumer Affairs has established the following goals for its programs and services:

• to reduce the depth, incidence and effects of low income;
• to increase participation in the labour market and community;
• to increase the self-sufficiency, independence and inclusion in society for children and adults with a disability;
• to increase the safety and well-being of persons who are vulnerable or at risk;
• to improve the healthy development of children, families and communities;
• to increase the availability of safe, affordable and appropriate housing;
• to improve the quality, efficiency and accessibility of the services provided by the Department; and
• to increase community capacity and opportunities for community involvement and input.

Guiding Principles

The Department's work is guided by the following principles:

• diversity is valued, individual difference is supported, respected and developed to encourage both independence and interdependence;
• opportunities are provided for equal access to valued outcomes, self-determination, meaningful involvement and valued roles; and
• community capacity exists to sustain and build upon achievements.