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Turning hurt into hope for struggling youth

Press Release

Sep 10, 2024

Alberta’s government is providing $4 million to organizations to improve the mental health of young people and increase access to suicide prevention supports.

Every death of a youth by suicide is an unimaginable loss that leaves long-lasting scars on their loved ones and community. Such tragedies are preventable, and that’s why Alberta’s government is building on existing supports to ensure youth have access to the mental health and suicide prevention services when and where they need them.

The Youth Suicide Prevention Grant program is supporting 17 organizations across the province to enhance programs to meet the needs of youth who may be at increased risk, and improve access for rural and Indigenous communities. This includes fostering strong community partnerships and safe spaces that create a greater sense of belonging for young people.

“Alberta’s future is bright because of our young people. It’s important we make sure they feel supported, loved and valued so that does not change. I’m grateful our government is supporting so many organizations stepping up to help struggling youth and reignite their zest for life.”

Searle Turton, Minister of Children and Family Services

Since its launch in 2022, the Youth Suicide Prevention Grant program has supported about 930 youth directly, and more than 1,100 individuals have received information or been connected to mental health resources to support youth in their community. In March 2024, Alberta’s government renewed the program for two more years and increased funding by $1 million.

Young people struggling with their mental health or thinking about suicide deserve to know that there is help available to them. These grants highlight the valuable work done by our partners throughout the province, ensuring youth can feel hope for their future.”

Dan Williams, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction

Grant recipients were chosen for programming that supports target priority youth populations, including Indigenous youth, and addressing unique community needs. The Red Deer Native Friendship Society’s grant will allow it to continue empowering gender-diverse Indigenous youth through activities rooted in culture and ceremony.

“Our Connect to Culture, Connect to Wellness program has been successful in helping two-spirit and gender-diverse youth feel more confident about their identities. We are so thankful we can continue this program and make a positive difference for many more youth.”

Nadette Agecoutay, program director, Red Deer Native Friendship Society

Funds will also support a new pilot program at the C.L. Whole You Foundation in Leduc. The program aims to reduce stigma and isolation by normalizing conversations about emotions and increasing education and awareness among Indigenous youth, as well as recent immigrant and refugee youth.

“It takes a village to raise a child. With this grant funding, Empower Link is committed to cultivating a village that supports newcomers, Indigenous and sexual and gender-diverse youth in Leduc. Together, we aim to reduce stigma and normalize conversations of home within a safe space.”

Latoya Colas, director of Education and Counselling, C.L. Whole You Foundation

The Youth Suicide Prevention Grant program is part of the Alberta government’s fulsome approach to improve the mental health and well-being of vulnerable children and youth. Other steps include expanding prevention and early intervention services through Family Resource Networks, integrating mental health supports in schools and continuing to partner with Kids Help Phone for 24/7 support.

Quick facts

  • Grants range from $34,500 – $175,000 per year.
  • The 17 successful applicants receiving grants for 2024-26 are available online

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