Taking action against family violence in Hanna

Alberta’s government is investing nearly $6 million to prevent, interrupt, and respond to family violence while supporting survivors.

The Taking Action on Family Violence grant program is funding 26 community organizations that focus on preventing violence, intervening early, and helping survivors and their families rebuild their lives safely.

Through the program, Lynks – Harvest Sky Services and Support Society will receive $125,000. The funding supports victims of gender-based violence and raises awareness during Family Violence Prevention Month and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence campaign.

“We are making this substantial investment to help connect those in the Harvest Sky region with tools for employment, learning, business, and community services,” said Nate Horner, MLA for Drumheller-Stettler and president of the Treasury Board and minister of finance. “It is an important way for our community to come together and build better businesses and opportunities for employment.”

Alberta invests more than $188 million in gender-based violence prevention across the province as part of Building on Our Strengths: Alberta’s 10-year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence. More than $88 million is being spent this year on preventing family and sexual violence, including funding women’s shelters and sexual assault centres.

“Family violence has no place in our province. We are committed to making sure anyone experiencing violence has access to safe, culturally relevant supports when they need them,” said Searle Turton, minister of children and family services. “By investing in these community-led projects, we are empowering organizations to prevent violence, intervene early, and help survivors heal and rebuild.”

“This grant advances the work of our 10-year strategy to end gender-based violence, helping ensure every Albertan can live a life free from harm,” said Tanya Fir, minister of arts, culture and status of women. “During the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, we reaffirm our commitment to helping survivors find safety and rebuild their lives.”

Albertans affected by family or gender-based violence can call or text the Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818, or access confidential support through Safety Chat at alberta.ca/SafetyChat. Phone services are available in more than 170 languages. Immediate danger should be reported by calling 911.