Alberta funding grants for restorative justice programs

By Ian Burns

Law360 Canada (November 3, 2022, 11:40 AM EDT) -- Alberta is inviting organizations which provide restorative justice initiatives in the province to apply for grants to help support and grow their programs.

The Alberta Community Restorative Justice (ACRJ) grant supports the delivery of direct restorative justice services. Organizations that provide restorative justice services, including community-based coalitions, registered non-profits, Indigenous communities and youth justice committees, can apply for grants of up to $50,000.

“Restorative justice not only provides Albertans who want to participate in the process with better outcomes, it reduces the need to use traditional court resources to address legal issues,” said Justice Minister Tyler Shandro. “Investments like these grants help keep our justice system responsive to Albertans’ needs.”

Justice Minister Tyler Shandro

Justice Minister Tyler Shandro

Grants may be used to finance the direct operation of a program, including for wages, program administration, training and associated operational costs. They can go to established or ongoing programs, or new programs in communities with a prior history of restorative justice programs or restorative practice in the justice system.

Applicants must be located in Alberta and be a registered non-profit organization; a registered charity in good standing; a community-based coalition or network group with an incorporated fiscal agent; an Indigenous community, including band and tribal councils; or a youth justice committee applying to fund activities not currently funded by the Ministry of Justice.

“Our government remains committed to keeping Albertans safe with stable communities. Part of this commitment is taking corrective action when a mistake happens to provide restorative justice,” said Alberta Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis. “I am proud that this grant supports organizations that are in a position to explore new ways to keep our communities safe.”

Alberta has used restorative justice programming for more than 20 years, and the province said they have shown success in reducing recidivism, healing affected communities and empowering victims.

Applications are available online and open until Dec. 2. More information can be found here.

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