Southern Alberta child abuse prevention gets support

Oct 24, 2016

The province is extending funding for two community organizations in southern Alberta that focus on preventing child abuse through parenting and early childhood development.

As part of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Government of Alberta is reinforcing its commitment to work with community partners to support children and families.

Human Services is giving $120,323 in grant funding through the Family and Community Safety Program to the Opokaa’sin Early Intervention Society in Lethbridge for its North Star – Apatski’kaktosi – Building Stronger Urban Aboriginal Families project. This project provides culturally relevant parenting programs for Indigenous families and has benefited more than 80 vulnerable families this past year.

The Crowsnest Pass Women’s Resource and Crisis Centre in Blairmore is also receiving $35,520 for its Mentoring Moms Program, which provides supports to single and low-income mothers by building their parenting skills and their connections to the community. The program is delivered through the Crowsnest Pass Parent Link Centre.

“Child abuse devastates lives, and harms the fabric of our communities. We all have a responsibility to prevent abuse and ensure that survivors and those who love them have the supports they need to heal. Our government is proud to partner with these agencies in their life changing work with indigenous and lower-income families.”

Irfan Sabir, Minister of Human Services

“I’m grateful to have the Opokaa’sin Early Intervention Society making a difference in the lives of so many children and families in our region, and proud to be part of a government committed to a brighter future for children. I thank the Minister for these important investments in preventing child abuse in Southern Alberta.”

Maria Fitzpatrick, MLA for Lethbridge-East

“Opokaa’sin is honoured to receive continued funding to support our important work with vulnerable families and children. Opokaa’sin, in partnership with the Alberta government, is committed to creating a different future for our Indigenous families and children, where dignity, peace and respect are the foundations on which we build our families.”

Tanya Pace-Crosschild, Executive Director, Opokaa’sin Early Intervention Society

“Mentoring Moms Program is extremely grateful to receive funding to be able to continue our work with at-risk moms in our community. With this funding we are able to bring moms and supportive mentors together to promote positive parenting and increase awareness of vital community supports.”

Pam Vamplew, Crowsnest Pass Parent Link Centre

Quick facts

• Anyone with concerns about a child being abused or neglected should contact their local Human Services Office, Delegated First Nations Agency or police.
• The confidential Child Abuse hotline is available at 1-800-387-KIDS (5437), 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Related information

• Opokaa’sin Early Intervention Society
• Crowsnest Pass Parent Link Centre
• Recognizing and reporting child abuse in Alberta
• How can I help?
• What happens if I call?

Media inquiries

Aaron Manton
780-668-1148
Press Secretary, Human Services

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