Dragonfly Centre receives major provincial support to fight family violence in the Lakeland

Bonnyville’s Dragonfly Counselling and Support Centre is receiving more than $220,300 from Alberta’s Taking Action on Family Violence grant program, a boost that strengthens front-line support for families across the Lakeland.

The provincial program is investing nearly $6 million into 26 community agencies across Alberta, but for Bonnyville and surrounding rural communities, the Dragonfly Centre stands out as a lifeline.

A local agency making a regional impact

Since 2014, Dragonfly has been the primary sexual violence service provider for northeastern Alberta. Their work reaches well beyond Bonnyville, extending into the Lakeland, including Cold Lake, St. Paul, Lac La Biche, and Indigenous communities.

They provide free, confidential counselling, crisis intervention, group support, advocacy and navigation services. For many survivors, Dragonfly is the first safe place they turn when everything else feels dark.

MLA Scott Cyr says this investment recognizes the centre’s importance.

“Since 2014, the Dragonfly Counselling and Support Centre has been the primary sexual violence service provider in northeastern Alberta, offering free and confidential support to survivors and their families. It is often the first light people see when they are walking through the darkest moments of their lives,” said Cyr.
“This investment will help Dragonfly reach more families across Bonnyville and the Lakeland, break the cycle of abuse and give survivors a real path to healing and hope.”

A province-wide commitment to safety

This funding comes during Family Violence Prevention Month and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence, both of which highlight the need for strong local responses.

Minister Tanya Fir says the grant supports Alberta’s 10-year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence.

“This grant advances the work of our 10-Year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence, helping ensure every Albertan can live a life free from harm,” said Fir. “During the 16 Days of Activism, we reaffirm our commitment to helping survivors find safety and rebuild their lives.”

Across Alberta, the province is investing more than $188 million into gender-based violence prevention, including $88 million this year for shelters, sexual assault centres and community prevention work.

Is St. Paul included in the funding?

No. St. Paul, Stepping Stones, and other Lakeland agencies were not listed as recipients in this round of funding. The only Lakeland-based organization selected is the Dragonfly Counselling and Support Centre in Bonnyville.

Supporting survivors in the Lakeland

Help is always available. Anyone experiencing family or gender-based violence can access:
▪️ Family Violence Info Line (24/7): Call or text 310-1818 (170+ languages)
▪️ Safety Chat: alberta.ca/SafetyChat
▪️ In immediate danger, call 911

For localized support, residents can contact the Dragonfly Centre directly.

The provincial funding ensures Dragonfly can continue expanding access, delivering education, and strengthening prevention efforts across the Lakeland — keeping the focus on families close to home.