Calgary Police Service vehicle, file photo. (Image: The Canadian Press)

By David Opinko / with files from The Canadian Press

Alberta to provide crime prevention grants as Calgary sees increase in shootings

Aug 24, 2022 | 4:39 PM

CALGARY, AB – The Alberta government will provide a total of $5.2 million to support programs that prevent crime and keep people safe.

Justice Minister Tyler Shandro says the Alberta Crime Prevention (ACP) grants will be doled out to eligible groups across the province over the next two years.

He says the money can be used for the delivery of community safety plans, youth gang prevention and exit programs, as well as plans that address emerging issues and trends.

“The safety of Albertans is our top priority. Alberta’s government is working to support public safety and will continue taking action to ensure the safety and well-being of our families and friends,” says Shandro. “The available grants will help ensure we keep Alberta’s communities safe and crime-free for generations to come.”

Shandro made the announcement in Calgary, where police have already responded to 97 shootings in 2022.

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Calgary police Chief Mark Neufeld says the number of shootings so far this year is unprecedented for the city.

Neufeld adds that the funding won’t necessarily help with police response to the shootings, but it could help to create community safety plans and pay for programs to prevent others.

“The Calgary Police Service is committed to crime prevention in our city,” says Neufeld. “Education and awareness are integral to reducing crimes of opportunity. We thank the Ministry of Justice and Solicitor General for offering this opportunity to community-based groups and not-for-profits to receive funding that will further ensure community safety and well-being.”

Organizations that are eligible for funding under ACP include registered non-for-profits, First Nations and Metis Settlements, municipalities, community-focused police programs and services, community groups with a designated fiscal agent, and organizations that received the Gun & Gang Violence Action Fund (GGVAF) Youth Gang Prevention Community Mobilization Grant and are at the implementation phase.

Grants can range between $25,000 to $150,000 per year during the program’s life.

Learn more about ACP and how to apply on the Alberta Government’s website.

(The Canadian Press)