Why We Stressin' workshop for dads highlights need for more services

A workshop for fathers being offered in Charlottetown has filled up quickly, say the organizers, pointing to a need for more services for dads in the province.

Why We Stressin' is being offered by Family Service PEI, a not-for-profit community agency, using materials created by Dad Central Ontario.

Family Service PEI executive director Nora McCarthy-Joyce told CBC News she recently surveyed community groups and government agencies about what was available for fathers.

"There are very, very few services that reach out to fathers. That really is a missing piece here," said McCarthy-Joyce.

"We know that there's a high need because our program filled up almost instantly."

Workshops planned outside of Charlottetown

The workshop will help fathers identify sources of stress in their life, recognize when they're stressed, and look at ways of reducing stress.

Why We Stressin' is being offered as four weekly workshops in Charlottetown as a pilot project. Family Service PEI is planning to offer the workshop in western and eastern P.E.I. as well.

If the pilot project goes well, the group will look into offering other workshops to help dads improve their parenting skills.

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