The emotional significance of helping survivors retrieve personal belongings is a critical part of the work we do. A person’s belongings are more than just things; they are symbols of identity and normalcy that can keep individuals from leaving unsafe environments for fear of losing everything. As Shelter Movers expands its reach across the prairies, the ability to gradually increase capacity to meet the growing demand for referrals relies on strong partnerships. In order to ensure that every survivor receives the support they deserve, community connections with organizations like Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation are crucial.
An Incredible Need
According to the Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters, one in three women in Alberta will experience intimate partner violence in their lifetime. Between 2018 and 2022, Alberta consistently reported higher rates of women and girls killed by violence involving a male abuser compared to the national average. Each year, Calgary alone fields approximately 20,000 calls related to intimate partner violence. This figure does not account for unreported cases, which experts believe are numerous.
Beyond the sobering statistics that paint a picture of the persistent and widespread nature of the problem, Alberta’s distinct communities and landscape present unique challenges. According to Statistics Canada, Indigenous women in Alberta are particularly vulnerable, experiencing 27% higher rates of intimate-partner and family violence. Winter in Alberta also introduces a host of challenges for those looking to leave abusive situations. The potential risks in the winter are even higher stakes making it an essential time to have an open conversation about what the warning signs of family violence are, what resources are out there, and how we can all make ourselves accountable for building healthier relationships in our communities.
The Significance of November: Family Violence Awareness Month
Every November, Family Violence Awareness Month plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the pervasive issue of intimate partner and family violence in the province. Events hosted by a variety of organizations highlight the importance of education, support services, and prevention efforts aimed at reducing family violence. The month’s campaigns engage the public, promote services for survivors, and encourage conversations around healthy relationship dynamics, bringing to light the tough conversations that are crucial to breaking cycles of violence.
Awareness of family violence varies widely, with complex factors like emotional or psychological impacts often being overlooked. By shining a spotlight on the issue, Family Violence Awareness Month aims to reduce stigma, support survivors, and mobilize communities to create safer environments. The month also provides an opportunity for service providers, policymakers, and advocacy groups to unite in efforts to improve resources and protection for those affected at all intersections of society. Although many Albertans may believe that family violence is far removed from their day-to-day lives, the likelihood that every Albertan knows at least one person who has experienced family violence is very high, as Alberta has the third highest rate of self-reported spousal violence among Canadian provinces.
Community Partnerships are Crucial
The support of local partners is crucial for providing comprehensive care and support to survivors. When family violence services are embedded within communities, survivors have better access to resources and an easier time navigating the many-layered steps to safety. This community-based approach fosters a sense of safety and trust, allowing survivors to seek help without fear of isolation or judgment. Knowing there’s support from the local community helps to ensure survivors feel a sense of belonging despite the incredible challenges they face.
In Alberta, trusted referral partners such as Awo Taan Healing Lodge Family Wellness Centre, FearIsNotLove based in Calgary, enCompass Community Safety Agency, Nisa Homes Calgary, Nisa Homes Edmonton, Rowan House Society based in High River, Unison Alberta Elder Abuse Shelter in Calgary, WIN House, and Wings of Providence provide a crucial connection to every survivor Shelter Movers serves. Paired with the support of generous community partners like Enterprise Car Rental, Mini Mall Storage, and Weston Wood Solutions, Alberta communities are investing in the futures of survivors.
Community engagement in family violence prevention and education helps to raise awareness and challenge harmful behaviours, creating a culture of zero tolerance for abuse. By working together, community partners can provide more timely, holistic care and ensure that survivors have the support they need to rebuild their lives.
Amplification through Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation
The Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation plays a vital role in supporting Alberta charities by leveraging its resources to amplify the work of local organizations. The foundation uses its website, social media channels, and podcast, Give Amplify Connect, to raise awareness about featured charities and their programs. By connecting local non-profits with like-minded supporters, the foundation fosters long-term success and community growth. For Family Violence Awareness Month, the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation supported Shelter Movers’ Alberta chapters through a podcast interview with Rebekah Hansen, Shelter Movers Edmonton’s Chapter Director, and a podcast interview with Elsa Perry, Shelter Movers Calgary’s Chapter Director.
The goal to elevate the impact of charitable organizations through visibility, advocacy, and connection-building is a powerful support to Shelter Movers’ work in Alberta. The Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation’s approach ensures that vital grassroots efforts are supported, helping to create a more interconnected philanthropic network across Alberta. Through its strategic outreach, the Wolfe Pack Warriors Foundation is helping to create lasting, positive change within the province’s nonprofit sector.
Shelter Movers is Committed to Alberta - How can Alberta Commit to Shelter Movers
After one year of service in Alberta across two Chapters, Shelter Movers has supported over 100 families to move on from lives of violence. As demand increases, Shelter Movers looks to Alberta communities to invest in this proven solution. Through volunteering, community partnerships, and raising awareness, there are various ways to contribute to this crucial cause.
While business partnerships are essential, providing services like storage and transportation, volunteer movers and drivers are the key to enabling Shelter Movers’ comprehensive support for survivors. It is essential that everyone acknowledges the importance of actively participating in the work to eliminate family violence. Every hour spent packing a box or driving a client moves a fellow Albertan one step closer to a safe, secure future.