Read the full Story - Alberta Council of Women's Shelters

News releaseNovember 14, 2011New family violence prevention project engages men, boysEdmonton... The Alberta government is investing seized proceeds of crime in a new grassrootsprogram to engage men and boys in the prevention of family violence.The Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters received $150,000 from Alberta’s Civil ForfeitureOffice to develop and implement their innovative Taking a Stand project.“Family violence is more than a social problem. It is a crime that violates what should be the safestplace anyone knows – their own home,” said Verlyn Olson, Minister of Justice and AttorneyGeneral. “That’s why I’m so pleased our government can redirect funds from criminal activity tosupport a community-based project like this one.”Taking a Stand will bring together a variety of community-based organizations to increaseknowledge of gender-based discrimination and violence, and will work to break down the attitudesthat contribute to violence against women.“Everyone in society – no matter what their gender, culture or background – has a role preventingfamily violence,” said Human Services Minister Dave Hancock. “The Taking a Stand project is anexcellent example of the community coming together to address this complex societal issue, and Iam excited about our partnership and the work being done by the Alberta Council of Women’sShelters.”“Solutions to family violence require a multi-faceted approach,” said Jonathan Denis, SolicitorGeneral and Minister of Public Security. "This innovative program highlights strong partnershipswith government, law enforcement, and the community to help address family violence.”Alberta’s Civil Forfeiture Office is an innovative and long-term way to address crime and supportvictims of illegal activity. Property gained through criminal acts is seized and if the court action issuccessful, forfeiture is ordered.More than $24.5 million in property and cash tied to criminal activity has been seized to date,including over 214 drug dealer cars, 51 drug houses and over 128 cases of bulk cash. Proceedsfrom this process provide funding for crime prevention programs, like anti-gang initiatives for at-riskyouth, and programs that assist victims of crime; so far, $1.8 million has been distributed, or is inthe process of distribution.“We are pleased to be working with the province on this initiative as they have recognized that trueprevention requires changes in attitudes towards violence against women and children. This projectwill provide benchmarks to help measure our collective progress,” said Jan Reimer, ProvincialCoordinator, Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters.

- 30 -Media inquiries may be directed to:Alison KepplerPublic Affairs OfficerAlberta Justice780-427-8530alison.keppler@gov.ab.caJan ReimerProvincial CoordinatorAlberta Council of Women’s Shelters780-456-7000jreimer@acws.caTo call toll-free within Alberta dial 310-0000.