Local support centre to receive portion of new provincial funding

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on August 21, 2025.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

The Sanare Centre, a local association supporting victims of sexual, domestic and personal violence and trauma, is among eight child and youth advocacy centres across the province to receive a portion of $3.7 million in funding from the provincial government.

Alberta’s minister of children and family service, Searle Turton, announced the funding increase on Wednesday, which represents a 10 per cent increase to the total funding allocated for child and youth advocacy centres in 2025.

The announcement comes on the shoulders of a July 1 funding commitment of more than $300,000 to help address ongoing pressures experienced throughout the sector across the province, including rising case loads.

During the announcement Turton spoke directly to staff members and volunteers who provide vital work supporting Alberta youth.

“Your work and empathy does make a difference in the lives of so many children here,” said Turton. “I have heard of your concerns and I recognize the ongoing pressures that you’re facing.”

Child advocacy centres like the Sanare Centre work with local law enforcement agencies and community partners to provide services like mental health, medical and legal support to children and youth who have experienced physical or emotional trauma, sexual abuse or neglect.

These centres also provide children with a comfortable environment and support while they disclose their abuse and help them navigate the justice system.

“This funding is a meaningful step towards your ability to continue delivering vital services to Alberta’s most valuable children and youth,” added Turton.

The Chinook Child and Youth Advocacy Centre in Lethbridge will also receive a portion of funding.

“It was so important for us to help strengthen child advocacy centres that are located in our other mid-sized cities such as Lethbridge and Medicine Hat,” said Turton. “Because we want to make sure that those families that are going through some of the most darkest days of their entire lives, they don’t have to drive hours and hours to be able to get to an advocacy centre.”

Child advocacy and youth centres in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Grande Prairie, Llyodminster and Fort McMurray will also receive funding.

According to the minister, the funding increase builds on Alberta’s 10-year strategy to end gender-based violence.

Youth or adults who see something concerning or are experiencing abuse are encouraged to call the province’s 24-7 Child Intervention Line at 1-800-638-0715.

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