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Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services. (Government of Alberta)
$5.7 Million Investment

Province aiming to support Albertans with brain injuries

Jun 20, 2025 | 11:46 AM

The provincial government says it is trying to ensure Albertans with brain injuries and their families are supported.

Provincial officials note, acquired brain injuries change lives in an instant, and can affect an individual’s memory, emotions, communication and movement. They acknowledge the road to recovery is often long, unpredictable and challenging – not only for individuals with brain injuries, but also for the families and communities who support them every step of the way.

Each year, the government estimates about 5,000 Albertans suffer a brain injury, and through Budget 2025, Alberta’s government says it is investing more than $5.7 million into the Alberta Brain Injury Initiative to ensure they have the support they need, when and where they need it.

“I’ve experienced first-hand the impact a brain injury can have on an individual and their family, and how critical the right supports are on the road to recovery,” shares Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services. “This investment isn’t just funding – it’s a commitment to Alberta families, and to the organizations doing vital work to help them heal. I’m proud to support this work and help ensure it will continue to be there for other families, just as it was for mine.”

Government officials say the Alberta Brain Injury Initiative is a network of agencies that assist individuals with brain injuries and their families in accessing supports from programs and community resources across the province. These programs are said to work with individuals with brain injuries, their families and community service providers to develop service plans, connect them with supports and benefits that are available, and help survivors live independently and with dignity.

“Recovery from a brain injury is a lifelong journey, and ongoing community supports are a vital part of that process,” explains Pam McGladdery, CEO, Universal Rehabilitation Service Agency. “The Alberta Brain Injury Initiative, funded by the Government of Alberta, provides brain injury survivors and their families with access to these crucial supports. This Initiative is integral in restoring hope and helping survivors build the skills necessary for greater independence.”

“I am extremely thankful for the support that the government provides for organizations like the Universal Rehabilitation Service Agency, who has supported me as I relearn skills in a safe and comfortable environment,” says Mimi Tang, individual living with an acquired brain injury. “This funding will help these supports keep running, helping their clients recover successfully and find happiness.”

Government officials note, June is Brain Injury Awareness Month in Canada – a time to raise awareness of the difficulties individuals with brain injuries and their families face, and to celebrate their strength. Alberta’s government says it works with families, communities, health care workers and service providers to ensure Albertans with brain injuries have the supports they need to heal and lead happy, fulfilling lives.

Alberta Brain Injury Initiative service providers:

  • Association for the Rehabilitation of the Brain Injured
  • Brain Care Centre
  • Brain Injury Assist
  • Blue Heron Support Services
  • Canadian Mental Health Association
  • Networks Activity Centre of Alberta
  • REDI Enterprises Society
  • Southern Alberta Brain Injury Society (SABIS)
  • SKILLS Society
  • St. Paul Abilities Network S.P.A.N
  • Universal Rehabilitation Service Agency
  • Taproot

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