NDP Community and Social Services Critic Marie Renaud issued the following statement in response to the announcement regarding Jessie’s House:

“I am relieved that Jesse’s House will be receiving much needed funding to be able to serve people fleeing domestic violence, especially since cases of domestic violence are surging during the pandemic. I am however disappointed that this is a one time grant which does not provide long term and stable operational funding for this critical service.”

“I spoke in the Legislature April 15 on the need for at least $1.5 million for Jesse’s House to meet all of their needs. I worry this is not enough funding to serve women and families in rural Alberta. I also want clarity if the funding directed to this project is taking away funding from other women shelters and oversubscribed services in the Community and Social Services ministry, which are already underfunded by the UCP. There was no additional funding for women shelters in Budget 2021.” 

“I hope to see permanent and stable operational funding for Jessie’s House in next year’s budget.”