Today, Alberta’s Minister of Children and Family Services, Searle Turton, unveiled a significant funding initiative aimed at bolstering support for young survivors of sexual abuse. Turton shared the government’s commitment to providing $5 million over the next three years to Little Warriors, a dedicated organization that aids children and youth in recovering from the harrowing impacts of sexual abuse.
The announcement took place at the Be Brave Ranch, a pioneering treatment facility operated by Little Warriors, the only one of its kind in Canada. The funding aims to enhance the comprehensive care provided to young survivors, ensuring they receive the mental, emotional, and physical support necessary for their healing journey.
Minister Turton acknowledged the painful reality that many children and teens in Alberta face. “One in three Albertans have experienced sexual abuse under the age of 18,” he noted, referencing data from the Alberta Association of Sexual Assault Services. “These are not just numbers; they represent young lives shattered by trauma, now grappling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and issues of trust.”
Turton emphasized the government’s role in supporting these vulnerable individuals. “As Minister of Children and Family Services, it is my duty to ensure that young survivors receive the compassionate care they need,” he stated. “Our government’s funding will support Little Warriors in their mission to provide evidence-based treatment and safe spaces for healing.”
Little Warriors, an Alberta-based charitable organization, has been at the forefront of raising awareness, preventing abuse, advocating for survivors, and offering treatment. Jennifer Martin, CEO of Little Warriors, expressed profound gratitude for the funding. “This $5 million investment is a game-changer,” Martin said. “this additional funding enables us to help more kids get their childhoods back and find their voices again help them heal from the physical mental and emotional effects of their sexual abuse trauma”
The Be Brave Ranch offers a unique, intensive program that combines on-site and outpatient therapy. The facility’s camp-like setting provides a nurturing environment where children can feel safe and supported. Programs include art therapy, animal therapy, sensory therapy, yoga, and nature walks, all designed to help young survivors express themselves and begin their healing process.
The funding will allow Little Warriors to expand their reach and provide more comprehensive care. “Typically, we serve about 500 individuals per year,” Martin explained. “This funding will relieve financial pressures and allow us to explore ways to serve even more children and families.”
Dr. Wanda Polzin Holman, Clinical Director at the Be Brave Ranch, highlighted the importance of their multidisciplinary approach. “Our clinical team is built of a multidisciplinary group of folks who come together to support children in our children’s program, ages 8 to 12 years old. Our teen program serves adolescents age 13 to 18, and most recently, we have also opened up a family program.” she said.
Turton’s announcement is part of a broader government initiative to protect vulnerable Albertans. Earlier this year, the government allocated an additional $10 million to women’s shelters and sexual assault centers, and continues to invest $3.4 million annually in child and youth advocacy centers.
“The need for facilities like the Be Brave Ranch is, unfortunately, growing,” Turton acknowledged. “But I’m comforted knowing that organizations like Little Warriors are here to support not just the survivors, but also their families.”
With the announced funding, there’s a notable stride forward in aiding young survivors of sexual abuse and their families. Minister Turton reiterated the government’s dedication to sustained assistance, emphasizing, ‘Protecting children is a collective duty. Our commitment remains unwavering—we’ll ensure vital support is accessible when it matters most.’