Alberta’s government is providing funding to six Indigenous-led organizations for programs to help stop violence against Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit plus (2S+) people.
One of the funding recipients is the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women, which has been awarded $300,000 to help increase access to supports for Indigenous women. Through advocacy and referrals, two navigators – one in Edmonton and one in Calgary – will support Indigenous women who are seeking programs and services.
“Alberta’s government is committed to making Alberta a safer place for Indigenous women, girls and 2S+ people. These grants to community organizations will prevent violence by strengthening supports and creating opportunities for healing.”
Funding will also support the development of culturally appropriate protocols and policies within police services that can strengthen alliances between front-line service providers and police agencies. Awo Taan is receiving $75,000 to work with the Calgary Police Service to improve processes to meet the needs of families, survivors and loved ones of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2S+ people.
“When survivors of gender-based violence step forward, it is critical they are met with the support they need to feel safe. These grants will help ensure that Indigenous women, girls and 2S+ people facing gender-based violence have access to the supports they need, when they need them.”
Four Winds and Associates Inc. is receiving $60,000 to fund engagement with community partners, police services and broadcasters to expand the reach of the Aboriginal Alert system, which raises awareness of missing Indigenous people.
The Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association (ANFCA) is receiving $150,000 to continue programs for vulnerable Indigenous women and girls, survivors of violence and family members who have lost loved ones to violence.
“ANFCA thanks Indigenous Relations for providing funding to support four of our 21 friendship centre communities: Grande Prairie Friendship Centre, Nistawoyou Friendship Centre in Fort McMurray, Red Deer Native Friendship Centre, and Sagitawa Friendship Centre in Peace River. Funding will help expand culturally safe and Indigenous-led programming for vulnerable Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBT+ peoples and supports for families of murdered and missing Indigenous women and girls. Demand for these supports has increased significantly post-pandemic and our friendship centres are needed more than ever in providing these programs.”
Standing Together, in partnership with the YWCA Edmonton, is receiving $55,500 to host weekly healing circles for survivors of gender-based violence. Grounded in cultural practices, these circles will help survivors and loved ones on their path to healing.
The Creating Hope Society will use $50,000 to work with high-risk vulnerable community members to access medical treatment, trauma therapy and basic amenities like food, transportation and family visits. The Street Trade Resources Education Empowering Together (STREET) program uses high-intensity outreach to build relationships with community members involved in street-level sex work.