Bonnyville’s first Walk for Peace held Wednesday

The walk raises awareness for Family Violence Prevention Month

To raise awareness, show support and help prevent family violence the Dr Margaret Savage Crisis Centre Outreach program in Bonnyville hosted Bonnyville’s inaugural Walk for Peace, on Wednesday. Brenda Parsons, outreach worker for the Dr Margaret Savage Crisis Centre says the walk symbolizes solidarity and helps eliminate the stigma attached to family violence.

“It’s important to recognize family violence in our community because, as with any social issue, those issues that are hidden away and not discussed are also never solved,” explains Parsons. “We must recognize that this issue exists in order to promote and encourage healthy and respectful relationships.”

“As a society, we need to help those people affected by family violence feel supported and acknowledged. We need to reach out and speak out about family violence. We need to create a safe and caring environment for those individuals who need help. And we need to show all people what a healthy relationship looks like, in our society, in our schools, in our homes.” Parson explains the outreach centre, otherwise known as the Community Support Program, is fairly new to Bonnyville. The Bonnyville Community Support Program is a partnership between Dr. Margaret Savage Crisis Centre and Bonnyville and District FCSS.

The Dr Margaret Savage Crisis Centre has hosted a Walk for Peace for a number of years; as well as, their annual Festival of Peace. Wednesday marked the first walk to be hosted in Bonnyville. Along with showing solidary through the walk, Councillor Lorna Storoschuk was on hand to reach a proclamation from the Town of Bonnyville declaring November Family Violence Prevention Month. “By standing up and saying Violence is wrong. By helping those that are affected by Family violence you show that you are aware of this issue and want a healthy society.”

The Bonnyville Community Support Program offers a number of programs and services, says Parsons, “the program provides support to those affected by family violence and bullying. We also provide programs for those wanting to learn more about healthy relationships including schools, groups and individuals.”

“If you know of anyone who needs help with an unhealthy relationship, they can call us, 780-826-2656 or the crisis line at 78-594-053.” Parsons adds that November is a good time to Reach out and Speak out. “Join us to help make our society healthy and respectful.”