The Alberta government is investing $2 million in community-based programs to prevent family violence.
The funding, available through the Family Violence Prevention Grant Program, will support organizations serving underserved communities, including men and boys, 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, newcomers, refugees, and those in rural or remote areas.
"No one should live in fear of violence, especially from those closest to them," said Searle Turton, Minister of Children and Family Services. "These grants will support survivors in their healing and help break cycles of abuse, preventing more Albertans from becoming victims."
Funding applications will be accepted until February 12.
This program builds on more than $100 million in existing investments aimed at supporting survivors, engaging men and boys, and promoting a culture of consent. It aligns with Alberta’s 10-year strategy to end gender-based violence and create safer communities.
Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women, Tanya Fir, said, "By investing in early intervention, we foster respect and accountability, leading to safer communities and improved well-being for individuals and families."
Federal Minister for Women, Gender Equality, and Youth Marci Ien added, "This investment in community-led prevention and healing offers hope and builds stronger, safer communities."
Help is available for anyone affected by family or gender-based violence through the Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818 or Alberta’s One Line for Sexual Violence at 1-866-403-8000. In an emergency, dial 911.
Locally, Airdrie P.O.W.E.R. (Protecting Our Women with Emergency Resources), a key organization supporting women fleeing domestic violence, announced in December 2024 that it would temporarily close for the remainder of the year due to staffing and funding challenges. According to the group, the decision was necessary to revitalize its services.
"We believe it essential for the revitalization of both our staff and our services to the community," the group wrote on Instagram. "With your ongoing support, we intend to reopen in the new year, better prepared to assist current and future clients."
No updates have been posted on social media since the announcement last month. Airdrie P.O.W.E.R. previously stated that it requires $60,000 to reopen and will proceed with its Coldest Night of the Year events as planned.
Since opening in February 2021, Airdrie P.O.W.E.R. has provided a Day Shelter for women to access essential services and runs the Period POWER initiative to reduce stigma around menstruation in schools and workplaces.
However, Airdrie currently lacks an emergency shelter for domestic violence survivors.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a domestic violence emergency, call 9-1-1. For non-emergency situations, call:
- Family Violence Helpline at 403-234-SAFE (7233) - 24-hour support is available
- Family Violence Information Line at 310-1818 - help is anonymous and available in more than 170 languages
- Community Links at 403-945-3900 or 1-866-945-3905
Sign up to get the latest local news headlines delivered directly to your inbox every afternoon.
Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@centralalbertaonline.com.
CentralAlbertaOnline encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the CentralAlbertaOnline app.