Alberta Invests $4 Million to Prevent Family Violence Across Province

Alberta’s government is taking significant steps to combat family violence by funding 31 community-based projects aimed at prevention. In a commitment to addressing the root causes of this critical issue, the province has allocated $4 million this year to support various agencies offering targeted initiatives.

This funding will benefit 29 agencies throughout Alberta, focusing on promoting healthy relationships and providing assistance to individuals affected by family violence. The government emphasizes the devastating impacts of family violence, highlighting the importance of proactive measures in fostering safe environments.

Investment in Community Initiatives

The initiatives funded by the Alberta government encompass a range of approaches including educational training, mentorship, sports programs, and support groups. These programs are designed to teach family violence prevention strategies and connect individuals to necessary services. Officials have stated that the funded agencies will work closely with Indigenous Peoples and vulnerable groups, such as men and boys, people with disabilities, 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals, and newcomers, including refugees.

“The support and skills we provide can prevent violence before it starts and help build healthy relationships,” said Searle Turton, Minister of Children and Family Services. He expressed pride in backing projects that aim to bring hope and lasting change to families across the province. Turton added, “Together, we can break the cycle and create a future free from family violence in Alberta.”

The funding originates from two new grant programs launched in January. Each program has been allocated $2 million: one through the Prevention Grant Program and the other through the invitational Indigenous-led Approaches to Family Violence Prevention Program. This initiative aligns with the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence and builds on the recently released Building on our Strengths, Alberta’s 10-Year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence. This strategy outlines the province’s comprehensive approach to preventing such violence, supporting affected individuals, and ensuring accountability for those responsible for these crimes.

Strengthening Community Bonds

“Preventing family violence begins with building strong support and trusted connections,” noted Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women. She explained that these grants advance Alberta’s 10-Year Strategy by fostering trust within communities, repairing relationships, and reinforcing the bonds that contribute to community strength. Fir affirmed, “Every Albertan deserves a safe place, free from fear.”

Additionally, the federal government is backing these initiatives. Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism), stated, “By investing in community-led and Indigenous-led programs, we are helping Albertans build healthy relationships, strengthen families, and break the cycle of violence.” Valdez emphasized the collaborative effort to create a future where every individual can live without fear of violence, with dignity and safety.

For those experiencing family violence, the government encourages individuals to reach out for support. The Family Violence Info Line is available 24/7 at 310-1818, and additional resources can be found online at alberta.ca/safetychat. A comprehensive list of services is accessible at alberta.ca/familyviolence.

The Alberta government’s 10-Year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence aims to leverage community strengths and government partnerships to realize a vision where every Albertan can live safely, free from gender-based violence.