RESOURCES & INFORMATION
resources
Grande Prairie Support
Pace Community Support, Sexual Assault, and Trauma Centre provides a variety of resources, supports, and services in the Grande Prairie community & area, including counseling services for those impacted by sexual violence, crisis intervention, family support, public education and training. Pace believes that anyone dealing with sexual assault, sexual abuse, crisis or trauma has the right to access skilled, caring and professional supports and services.
Located in the city of Grande Prairie, the Caribou Child & Youth Centre opened in 2012 as the second child advocacy centre in the province of Alberta. The Centre serves children and youth (under 18) who have experienced sexual, physical or psychological abuse, exploitation, and/or neglect. They also work with those who have witnessed other types of trauma or violence.
Help outside of Grande Prairie
Zebra Child Protection Centre is a place where a child can feel safe and protected. Examples are everywhere; from the playroom, children’s art and homemade blankets, each element of our Centre is there for a reason – to make kids comfortable. First and foremost, it is a strong support network for children, which encourages them to share their story on their own terms.
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ABUSE REPORTING INFORMATION
Making a Report is the First Step
The information provided by the caller will be assessed to determine if further investigation is required. Only the RCMP or Child Family Services can make a referral to The Bison Child & Youth Advocacy Centre.
In Alberta – Under the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act any person who has “reasonable and probable grounds” to believe that a child is being harmed, has an obligation to report it to the proper authorities.
In High Level To Report Abuse: Call Children’s Services, Child Intervention Intake at 1-800-638-0715
OR High Level RCMP at 780–926-2226
COMMUNITY RESOURCE LINKS
Here is a list of community resources to assist you with questions you may have, or provide the support you may require.
For 30 years, Kids Help Phone has offered free, confidential, non-judgmental support to youth 24/7 in multiple languages across Canada. They are here for young people in any moment of need, big or small. Especially now, youth need a safe space to share their feelings, worries, and questions.
Call: 1-800-668-6868 Text 686868
or Chat at KidsHelpPhone.ca
To report online situations where children or young people are being sexually abused or exploited, contact the Cybertip.ca tip line. Canada’s national tip line receives information from the public about child pornography, luring, child sex tourism and child prostitution. Cybertip also provides information, referrals, and other resources to help Canadians keep their children safe while on the Internet.
Being Victimized - INFORMATION
How might a child or youth victims be affected?
Being victimized can shatter a child’s view of the world. Children and youth may be affected in many ways, emotionally and physically. At different development stages, children may express their emotions differently.
Responses may include:
- Withdrawing
- Having stomach aches
- Sleep disruptions
- Being more clingy
- Exhibiting anxiety and depression
- Denying there is anything wrong
- Changings their behaviors, and “acting out” when they find it hard to express their feelings
How can you support a child?
Parents and caregivers can be a great source of support to their child.
- Assure your child that he or she did the right thing in telling someone
- React calmly
- Let your child know that you are there to listen
- Reassure your child that what happened is not his or her fault
- Accept that your child may “act out” but set limits
- Understand your own feelings and take care of yourself
- Discuss with your child any steps to take
- Watch for signs that your child needs additional support or help
- The journey may be long – Seek supports for your child and yourself
Parents and family can also be affected
It is important that families get the support they need. If you are affected by a crime, even if not directly, you can access the support of The Bison Child & Youth Advocacy Centre.
Parents, caregivers, and other family members can also experience significant emotions. These can include anger, shock, disbelief, shame, blame and fear of further harm. Siblings might be confused or become overprotective.