Supporting community justice initiatives

by ahnationtalk on May 2, 202442 Views

May 02, 2024

Resolving legal matters outside the traditional court system is faster, cheaper and less stressful for everyone involved. The Alberta Community Justice Grant reflects the Alberta government’s commitment to making the justice system more accessible, inclusive and responsive to the needs of the province’s diverse communities. It will give more options for resolving criminal, family and civil justice matters through a process that is culturally sensitive and aligns with people’s values.

For the 2023-24 fiscal year, 39 grant recipients from across the province were selected to receive grant funding, including nine in Calgary, nine in Edmonton, five in southern Alberta, 11 in central Alberta and five in northern Alberta. The organizations support families and communities and include Indigenous-based organizations, as well as those dedicated to criminal matters, family law matters and multiple other legal issues.

“I am proud of this innovative approach to alternative justice for Albertans. This grant will support organizations to boost community-driven alternatives to the formal court system to better serve their communities.”

Mickey Amery, Minister of Justice and Attorney General

The Alberta Community Justice Grant provides up to $25,000 in one-time payments to organizations that provide community-based initiatives aimed at addressing a range of legal issues. These include the development or enhancement of restorative justice programs and increasing access to justice in family law matters.

Other programs include initiatives that provide cultural safety training to justice system professionals, increase access to legal information for new Canadians, and carry out assessments to identify justice needs and service gaps within the community.

“Youth Justice Committees across Alberta provide meaningful community-based alternatives to the formal justice system by helping young people to make amends for their actions, access needed resources and contribute in a positive way to their community. This grant will amplify this restorative approach, resulting in immediate and long-lasting benefits for young people, their families, victims, our justice system and our communities.”

Denise Blair, executive director, Calgary Youth Justice Society

“The Fort Foundation Community Justice Hub empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of the legal system. We are deeply honoured to receive the Alberta Community Justice Grant, which will enable us to expand our community-driven programs and increase access to equitable justice in Fort Saskatchewan and Rural Communities.”

Sarah Spence, executive director, Fort Foundation

“This grant will allow staff from our agency, along with the YMCA staff, to increase their knowledge related to restorative justice practices and Indigenous teachings, which will enhance and deepen our work with the youth in the Diversion First program.”

Kerry Woodland, service delivery director, Boys and Girls Clubs Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton and Area

Quick facts

Grants consist of one-time payments ranging from $5,000 to a maximum of $25,000.
Applicants and the initiative being funded had to be based in Alberta, and be one of the following:
- Registered not-for-profit organizations and/or registered charities in good standing
- First Nation, Métis Nation of Alberta or Metis Settlements
- Municipalities
- Community groups with a designated fiscal agent
Individuals, for-profit organizations, Crown corporations, police services and publicly funded institutions were not eligible.
The following organizations will be receiving grants:

Calgary-based organizations: