A Community Rallies Around the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton
The Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton (SACE) recently faced a significant challenge when funding issues forced the organization to lay off staff and suspend intake for some of its vital services. However, the community has stepped up in a remarkable way, donating over $100,000 to the non-profit during its time of need. Mary Jane James, CEO of SACE, expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support, emphasizing that while the donations don’t completely resolve the financial shortfall, they demonstrate the community’s strong backing for the organization’s critical work. “The more we can demonstrate that need to our community, and most importantly to our government, the better off we’ll be,” James told Global News.
Funding Challenges and the Road Ahead
The funding struggles for SACE began earlier this month when the organization learned it would lose a significant grant from the provincial government, which was set to expire on March 31. The $1.8 million grant, awarded in 2023 over two years, was intended to address a growing waitlist that had some clients waiting up to 18 months for services. While the provincial government renewed SACE’s operational funding of just over $2 million, the loss of the grant has created a gap that the organization is now working to fill. Despite these challenges, SACE remains committed to providing essential services to its clients, and the recent donations have offered a much-needed lifeline.
Community Support and Generosity Shine Through
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, local groups and individuals have rallied around SACE, raising over $100,000 in a short period. One of the largest contributions came from seven auto dealerships affiliated with the CanadaOne Auto Group, which presented SACE with a cheque for $85,000. Additionally, an event called the Heavy Hockey Showdown, held at the Downtown Community Arena, raised approximately $28,000 for the organization. These contributions have been a beacon of hope for SACE as it works to recover from its financial setback.
The Impact of Donations on SACE’s Services
According to Mary Jane James, the donations will be directed toward SACE’s clinical team, which is essential for addressing the organization’s three- to four-month waitlist for services. “We will reopen our intake process,” James said. “We just had to catch our breath after last week and figure out the way forward.” The funds will help restore some of the services that were paused, including adult counselling, child and youth counselling, and core therapeutic groups. These services are vital for the over 1,500 clients SACE supports annually, many of whom rely on the organization for free, accessible care.
A Call to Action for Ongoing Support
While the recent donations have made a significant difference, SACE continues to advocate for sustainable funding to ensure the long-term sustainability of its programs. James urged community members to continue showing their support, whether through donations or by reaching out to their elected officials to advocate for increased funding for sexual assault centres. “We all know at least one person who has been impacted by sexual violence,” she said. “These people need the help. They deserve the help. When they don’t get the help and their trauma isn’t healed, they show up in other systems.”
Provincial Commitment to Addressing Sexual Violence
The provincial government has also acknowledged the importance of supporting organizations like SACE. In an email to Global News, Daniel Verrier, press secretary for Children and Family Services Minister Searle Turton, noted that while the one-time $1.8 million grant awarded in 2023 was intended to address waitlists, the province recognizes the critical role sexual assault centres play in supporting survivors. The upcoming Budget 2025, if passed, will allocate $88 million for the prevention of family and sexual violence, including $15.3 million for sexual assault centres across Alberta. This investment is part of the government’s commitment to allocate $10 million over four years to support these vital services.
As SACE works to rebuild and recover, the outpouring of community support and the promise of increased provincial funding offer hope for the organization’s future. With continued advocacy and collaboration, SACE can ensure that survivors of sexual violence receive the care and support they need to heal and rebuild their lives.
