FSJ Women’s Resource Society projects thousands more visits to Outreach Store in 2026

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The Fort St. John Women’s Resource Society has projected over 18,968 visits to its Outreach Store in 2026, which is 2,182 more visits compared to 2024. 

Estefania Albornoz, manager of fundraising and community engagement for the society, said: “Between 2023 and 2024, we experienced a 13 per cent increase in Outreach Store visits.

“If that trend continues, based on 16,786 visits, we project an increase of approximately 2,182 additional visits, bringing the total to about 18,968 visits in the coming year.” 

The society also  recently received a cash donation worth over $3,500 from ARC Resources, which Albornoz said “will directly support the Outreach Store.” 

She told Energeticcity.ca: “This donation will help keep our Outreach Store open and operating year-round.

“The Outreach Store has an annual operating cost of more than $172,000. 

“This figure applies only to the store, which is just one of the many programs and services offered by the FSJ Women’s Resource Society.” 

Albornoz also shared: “Because we do not sell anything or generate revenue from the store, donations like this one are essential to keeping it operating and accessible to the low-income families who rely on it most.” 

Speaking about how many families and women donations like this have helped in 2025, she said: “We will have the exact number of visits for 2025 in early January, but we estimate it will be higher than in 2024. 

“Approximately 80 per cent of our clients are women, meaning donations like this primarily support women and their families in our community.” 

Albornoz shared she has seen a decline in donations over the last couple of years but a steady increase in need. 

She said: “Client visits to our services have increased dramatically over time, reaching 16,786 visits in 2024, a 13.6 per cent increase from 2023. 

“This growth clearly demonstrates how demand for our services continues to rise.” 

She said: “To keep our programs running, we rely on a mix of funding sources, including multi-year contracts, grants, events and donations.

“However, local business support is key. The needs in northern communities are unique, and local businesses understand those challenges better than anyone. 

“Continued involvement from local businesses allows us to respond to this growing demand and continue supporting low-income women and families facing financial hardship.” 

Addressing how donations will help meet immediate and urgent needs, she said: “The Outreach Store addresses urgent needs year-round, particularly access to food.

“During the winter months, it also plays a critical role in providing warm winter clothing to individuals and families in need.” 

Find out more information about the Fort St. John Women’s Resource Society on its website.