The Alberta government has pledged $170,000 to support programs at the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre and Red Deer Family Services Bureau.
Education Minister Adriana LaGrange announced $150,000 for the advocacy centre and $20,000 for the family services bureau on Friday as part of the government’s’s COVID Mental Health Action Plan. The money is part of Phase 3 of the province’s Community Funding Grant Program.
Red Deer Family Services Bureau, is a non-profit organization that provides preventive, supportive, and early intervention services throughout central Alberta.
“I am thrilled to have had an active role in advocating for these projects in Red Deer,” says LaGrange.
The government’s plan to expand mental and addiction and treatment services involved creating the province’s first Associate Ministry for Mental Health and Addiction and eliminating user fees for publicly funded addiction treatment beds.
As well, $25 million has been earmarked for building five new long-term recovery facilities, including one in Red Deer.
Those struggling with mental health or addiction are urged to seek help, which is available at any time.
Resources include:
Addiction helpline: 1-866-332-2322
Mental health helpline: 1-877-303-2642
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text ‘CONNECT’ to 686868