HISTORY

The Centre for Child Development of the Lower Mainland (formerly South Fraser Child Development Centre operated by the Lower Fraser Valley Cerebral Palsy Association) was formed in 1953, and officially registered as a Society in 1954, by a group of parents whose children had cerebral palsy. They initially tried to collaborate to provide transportation for their children to attend the G.F. Strong Centre in Vancouver. As the population in the Lower Fraser Valley grew, the Association realized that a Child Development Centre was needed in their own community.

In 1973 the dream of modern treatment facility was realized primarily through the generosity of British Columbians who contribute to the annual funds raised by the Variety Club of BC Telethon. The Centre for Child Development building you see today is a result of the support from the Variety Club.

While all the needs of the original clients of the Centre were planned for, it was quickly realized that other children with physical disabilities would benefit from these services in their own community. The Centre has since opened its mandate to include children with many other developmental disabilities and special needs.

We are proud of our past, and our accomplishments. Our desire to meet the challenges of a growing population is reflected in the quality and diversity of the services we provide. Funds for services are provided primarily by the B.C. Ministry of Children and Family Development, United Way and our own fund raised dollars. Additional funding is provided by Community Living BC, the B.C. Medical Services Plan, B.C. Ministry for Human Resources, Insurance Corporation of B.C. (ICBC), B.C. Community Brain Injury Program, extended health insurers and some fees for services.