With local RCMP officers seeing an increase in weapons and violent behaviour, you would think the need for Airdrie and District Victims Services would be clear.
With the society’s caseload nearly doubling in the past four years, and 800 files – accounting for $60,000 of needed money – currently unfunded, ADVAS’ request for a one-time bridging grant of $40,000 seems not only reasonable, but warranted.
While the City does provide up to $30,000 in FCSS funding, that program is a 80/20 partnership with the province footing the larger contribution. If ADVAS received the max funding, just $6,000 would have come from the City. This money goes towards training of volunteers, and does not cover the costs associated with a case.
The City does save the organization rent costs by providing ADVAS with office space within the RCMP, which is a generous move. But with the caseload the society faces, we think the City can do more.
While we agree the provincial and federal funding models don’t reflect today’s reality, we would hope City council sees the value and grants the bridge-funding request.
Airdrie RCMP has repeatedly touted the benefits ADVAS provides to victims and the detachment, with Insp. Pasloske telling council the assistance provided by the society actually saves the municipality a significant expense.
Additionally, we hope those who can donate. After all, it would be horrible if the help wasn’t there when you needed it.
