Alberta Government announces more funding for sexual assault support centres
The Alberta Government is expanding front-line services across the province with a $8.1 million investment in the Association of Alberta Sexual Assault Services (AASAS), to ensure survivors who take the brave step to come forward have the supports they need.
This funding announcement was made on March 7 in Edmonton.
As part of the AASAS membership, the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre will be one of the centres receiving increased funding.
Across the province, sexual assault centres and law enforcement are reporting increased demand for counselling services. The government-funded AASAS #IBelieveYou campaign against the backdrop of the global #MeToo movement, are starting to help survivors feel safe about reaching out for help.
“Courageous women in Alberta and around the world are finally breaking their silence and sharing their stories of sexual assault and harassment,” said Status of Women Minister Stephanie McLean. “We hear them and we stand with them. Today, we are taking action – funding more counselling and helping people navigate the court and police systems so all survivors are supported on their healing journey.”
Funding details:
- $6.225 million from Community and Social Services (CSS), for increased counselling, outreach and education services, and to develop a Collaborative Community Response Model targeting seven underserved regions in the province:
- North West – High Level, High Prairie, Peavine, Rainbow Lake, Fort Vermillion;
- North East – Fort Chipewyan, Fort McKay, Janvier;
- North Central – Wabasca, Slave Lake, Athabasca;
- Central West – Hinton, Jasper, Edson;
- Central East – Bonnyville, Cold Lake, St. Paul, Lac La Biche;
- Bow Valley – Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise; and
- South West – Lethbridge, Cardston, Taber, Pincher Creek
- $750,000 from Health for specialized counselling and expanded services.
- $1.09 million from Justice and Solicitor General to enhance police and court support services.