Support for Survivors of Sexual Assault in Alberta
A Guide to Provincial and Local Resources
Sexual assault is one of the most underreported and misunderstood crimes in Canada. Survivors of all ages and backgrounds often struggle in silence, unsure of where to turn or how to access help. This guide provides a clear starting point for anyone who has experienced sexual violence or is supporting a survivor. You are not alone, and help is available.
The Reality of Sexual Assault in Canada
The statistics are heartbreaking and highlight the urgent need for awareness, prevention and accessible support.
Fact: One in two girls and one in three boys falls victim to unwanted sexual advances before the age of 18.
Fact: Sixty percent of rape victims are under the age of 17.
Fact: Sexual assault refers to all unwanted sexual activity, including touching or attempted sexual contact. Sexual assault is rape.
These numbers demonstrate how essential it is for Canadians to rally together and support survivors with care, compassion and accessible services.
In addition to community resources, survivors may also benefit from education around trauma recovery and healing. This podcast offers helpful insight into the impacts of sexual trauma:
BREAKING FREE FOUNDATION FREE SUPPORT MEETINGS
Members of the BFF team lead a group conversation about trauma and healing. Participate actively or simply as a listener, as these are safe spaces to connect with BFF and the trauma and healing community. https://www.breakingfreefoundation.ca/meetups
Association of Alberta Sexual Assault Services (AASAS)
Website: https://aasas.ca
AASAS is the provincial umbrella organization for sexual assault support centres across Alberta. They provide education, advocacy and connections to local services. AASAS operates Alberta’s ONE LiNE for Sexual Violence, a confidential support service available to anyone who needs guidance or immediate emotional support.
Alberta’s ONE LiNE for Sexual Violence
Call or text: 1 866 403 8000
This is a province wide service offering supportive listening, safety planning and referrals to local agencies.
Calgary Resources
Calgary Communities Against Sexual Abuse (CCASA)
Website: https://calgarycasa.com
CCASA provides free and confidential services to children, youth and adults who have been affected by sexual violence. Services include crisis support, counselling, education and police or court accompaniment.
Calgary Sexual Assault Response Team (CSART)
Website: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/findhealth/service.aspx?id=1962
CSART provides emergency medical care and forensic evidence collection for survivors who have recently experienced sexual assault. Survivors do not need to report to police to access care.
Alberta’s ONE LiNE
Call or text: 1 866 403 8000
Available to anyone in Calgary or across the province needing support or referrals.
Edmonton Resources
Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton (SACE)
Website: https://www.sace.ca
SACE offers free counselling for children, youth and adults, along with support for reporting, court preparation and public education. They are one of Alberta’s longest standing trauma centres.
Saffron Centre (Sherwood Park and surrounding region)
Website: https://www.saffroncentre.com
Saffron provides counselling services starting at age four, along with police and court support, community education and advocacy. Their team is trauma informed and inclusive.
AHS Sexual Assault Response Teams (SART)
Website: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/findhealth/service.aspx?id=5591
These teams provide immediate medical care and forensic evidence collection for survivors of recent sexual assault.
Red Deer Resources
Sendero Centre
Website: https://www.senderocentre.ca
Formerly known as CASASC, Sendero provides crisis intervention, counselling, police and court support and prevention programming for the Central Alberta region.
Red Deer City Victim Services Unit
Website: https://reddeercityvsu.ca/sexual-assault
This program supports survivors through referrals, crisis intervention and help navigating the justice system.
Red Deer Regional Hospital SART Team
Offers medical care and forensic evidence collection for those who have experienced a recent assault.
Fort McMurray Resources
Fort McMurray Victim Services Society
Website: https://fmvictimservices.com
Provides crisis response, emotional support, information and referrals for survivors of sexual assault or other crimes. They also help with police reporting and court preparation.
Waypoints
Website: https://www.waypointswb.ca
Waypoints offers counselling, emergency housing, trauma support and advocacy for those affected by domestic and sexual violence in the Wood Buffalo region.
Cold Lake Resources
The Dragonfly Centre
Website: https://thedragonflycentre.com
The Dragonfly Centre provides counselling, crisis intervention, education and trauma informed services for survivors of sexual violence in northeastern Alberta. They are a key support hub for Cold Lake and surrounding communities.
Medicine Hat Resources
SARC (Sexual Assault Response Committee)
Website: https://sarchealth.ca
SARC delivers counselling, crisis support, court accompaniment and prevention education. They also offer a 24 hour crisis line for survivors and their families.
How to Seek Support
Sexual assault is never the fault of the person who experiences it. Survivors deserve care, dignity and access to trauma informed support.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, consider taking one of the following steps:
• Contact a local sexual assault centre for counselling or guidance
• Reach out to Alberta’s ONE LiNE at 1 866 403 8000
• Visit a hospital with a Sexual Assault Response Team for medical care
• Speak with a trusted friend, family member or health professional
Healing is possible, and no one has to walk this path alone.