Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy - Elk Valley

06/05/2026

This week at CBAL, workshop participants learned how to stay safe around local wildlife. This included the opportunity to practice using bear spray.
Thank you WildSafeBC Elk Valley.

Stay safe this summer!🐻

06/04/2026

As our Food with Friends program comes to an end (until September), we would like to give a huge THANK YOU to The Loaf Italian Restaurant for their generous donations, helping feed our community. ❤️

06/02/2026

Are you new to Canada?
Bring your lunch and learn about wild animals in Canada and stay safe.

06/01/2026

05/30/2026

Keep an eye on the water turbidity index this spring.
The rating in Fernie is currently poor. That means it is recommended that you boil your water.

05/30/2026

UPDATED MAY 30, 2026, AT 3:00 PM

The City has found a temporary solution to fix the electrical failure at the James White Park Wells and has transitioned from the Fairy Creek water supply back to feeding the water system with the James White Park Wells.

The Boil Water Notice remains in place until the required sampling and lab analysis can be completed confirming the water is safe for consumption, which is expected to take a minimum of 48 hours.

We will advise the public when the Boil Water Notice is rescinded.

❗The City of Fernie has issued a Boil Water Notice, effective immediately.

Residents are advised to drink boiled water or a safe alternative until further notice. Water intended for drinking, washing fruits or vegetables, making beverages or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled for one minute.

Due to an electrical failure at James White Wells, the City has switched to the Fairy Creek water supply. The turbidity levels at Fairy Creek are higher than 5 NTU, which is common during spring freshet.

The City of Fernie is working to make repairs as quickly as possible. Interior Health has been notified, and the public will be advised when the boil water notice is rescinded.

https://www.fernie.ca/EN/meta/whats-new/news-archives/2026-archive/boil-water-notice.html

05/26/2026

Thank you so much to the CBAL program in Fernie (Columbia Basin Adult Literacy) for obtaining a grant to host seniors at the Salvation Army, giving out free soup and a craft every Wednesday. Sadly, last week was the final lunchtime session, but the range of crafts made was fabulous. Here is what Sandra produced, with all materials provided.

05/26/2026

Kim gave a new life to the front of the CBAL office today.

Using her literacy skills she planned, counted, chose a pattern, and read planting instructions, to create a fantastic little garden replacing the long weeds.
🪏🌸🌷🌼🪻

05/25/2026

Don't miss this great event at Isabella Dicken Elementary School in Fernie.

A fun and informative morning for families with children birth to 5 years old.

05/22/2026

Our latest e-newsletter for newcomers to Canada is now available. And it's all about Fernie! Link in bio :)

Check it out and learn about Rican at the Dummy Downhill and how Jodie Parker, a CBAL Settlement Worker helped ease the transition for students attending a Canadian school for the first time.
https://cbal.org/settlement-services/