Edmonton (National Times): The Government of Alberta is strengthening its commitment to survivors of sexual violence with an additional $1.5 million investment in sexual assault centres across the province. The funding will expand access to critical counselling and trauma-informed services for those impacted by sexual violence.
This latest boost brings the province closer to its goal of increasing support to sexual assault centres by $10 million. It follows a similar $1.5 million allocation made in March 2025, and complements the $13.8 million Alberta already provides annually to 15 sexual assault centres and the Association of Alberta Sexual Assault Services (AASAS).
“Sexual violence has devastating and often long-lasting effects on survivors,” said Searle Turton, Minister of Children and Family Services. “These additional funds will enhance the capacity of sexual assault centres to deliver the programming and supports that survivors deserve. We want every survivor to know they are believed, supported, and not alone.”
The government estimates that nearly 1.8 million Albertans have experienced some form of sexual violence in their lifetime. This funding is intended to ensure timely and accessible support services for these individuals, particularly counselling that is specific to the needs of survivors.
The announcement comes as Alberta wraps up Sexual Violence Awareness Month and follows the recent unveiling of “Building on Our Strengths,” Alberta’s 10-year strategy to end gender-based violence. The strategy outlines more than 100 initiatives to prevent violence, support survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable.
“As we close out Sexual Violence Awareness Month, we reaffirm our dedication to ending gender-based violence in all forms,” said Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women. “This funding ensures that survivors can access the help they need, where and when they need it.”
Haley Scott, co-CEO of AASAS, welcomed the funding, emphasizing the importance of ongoing government support:
“Sustained investment is critical. This funding allows us to deliver trauma-informed services that are tailored to survivors of sexual violence and meet the diverse needs of Albertans.”
Sexual assault centres in Alberta provide a safe space for survivors, offering professional counselling, advocacy, and community-based programs that help individuals heal from trauma and rebuild their lives.
For those in need of support, help is available 24/7. You can contact the Alberta One Line for Sexual Violence by calling or texting 1-866-403-8000, or by reaching out to your nearest sexual assault centre.
This investment marks another step forward in Alberta’s goal of making the province the safest place to live, work, and raise a family, free from the threat and impact of sexual violence.
