About

Who are we?

Family SOS is a local, non-profit, child-centred organization directed toward building strong and healthy families. As an inclusive family support agency, Family SOS offers free comprehensive programs that will benefit all family members. 

Our work focuses on: 

  • Increasing parenting confidence

  • Developing relationships within families

  • Fostering self-awareness

  • Improving confidence in children and youth

  • Encouraging pro-social choices

  • Strengthening communication within families

  • Improving health and well-being

  • Empowering self-sustainability

Founded in 1978 by Dr. John Anderson, a pediatrician at the IWK, Family SOS was created after Dr. Anderson saw firsthand the need for a proactive, preventative approach to supporting families.

What began as a small initiative to build parenting confidence and strengthen family connections has grown into a trusted community organization serving families throughout HRM.

Our Mission

Family SOS supports children and families by providing guidance and resources to successfully navigate their circumstances.

Our Vision

A community where all children and families are physically and emotionally secure. 

Our Values

  • Sustainability: The organization’s longevity is ensured through effectively managing its resources and adapting to the community's changing needs.  

  • Accountability: Responsible to our funders and those we serve through transparency and by upholding the organization’s values and best practices.

  • Family-focused: An equitable, empathetic, and inclusive approach to serving families in our community.

  • Empowerment: Programs and services that offer families help today for a better tomorrow.

Accessing our services

Many families self-refer to Family SOS, while others are referred by partners such as the Department of Community Services, the IWK, mental health professionals, day treatment programs, and the Mental Health Mobile Crisis Team.

  • Parenting Programs: parentsupport@familysos.ca | 902-455-5515 ext. 280

  • Greystone Centre Programs: healthykidz@familysos.ca | 902-455-5515 ext. 350

  • Food Support Programs: food@familysos.ca | 902-455-5515 ext. 325