Building Bridges to better support survivors of family violence

On February 25, Strathcona County RCMP, A Safe Place, and the Saffron Centre will host a new community event focused on building bridges of trust between individuals impacted by family violence, specialized victim support services, and the RCMP. The event, appropriately named Building Bridges, will feature representatives from the Strathcona County RCMP, A Safe Place, and the Saffron Centre.

“Healing begins when survivors know they are believed, supported, and protected. Whether it is you or someone you know who is impacted by family violence, understanding the strength of relationships between specialized service providers helps to lower barriers to access and build trust, ensuring that no one has to navigate their journey alone,” says Kiara Warkentin, Director of Justice, Research, and Outreach at the Saffron Centre.

Each organization will provide a brief presentation outlining their roles, approaches, and processes for supporting survivors. Following the presentations will be a facilitated group discussion exploring current collaborative efforts and successes, barriers to providing trauma-informed care, and the future of partnership between specialized agencies.

“This event is about transparency, collaboration, and shared learning,” says Inspector Kevin Peterson, Strathcona County RCMP. “Together, we can build a more informed community and continue learning how to better support survivors.”

“Collaboration between supports ensures those that have experienced violence are less isolated, which always increases safety. When we work together, families know they are cared for by the community and worthy of building safe futures for themselves,” says Cortney Lohnes, Director of Shelter Services at A Safe Place. 

The event is recommended for community members ages 16 and older. Light refreshments will be provided, and Saffron Centre staff will be on site to offer emotional support for participants throughout the evening. In-person attendance is encouraged. If you are unable to attend in-person, an option for attending online is available. To register to attend Building Bridges, please visit the event listing on eventbrite.

Event details
Date and time: February 25, 2026, 6–8:30 p.m.
Location: Council Chambers, Strathcona County Community Centre, 401 Festival Lane, Sherwood Park
Age recommendation: 16+
Register: via eventbrite

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Contact
Strathcona County RCMP
Cst. Cheri-Lee Smith
Public information Officer
Cell: 780-886-0672
Afterhours: 780-509-3970 option 5 after language selection

Saffron Centre
780-449-0900
Info@saffroncentre.com
www.saffroncentre.com

A Safe Place
780-464-7233
Helpline@asafeplace.ca
www.asafeplace.ca

Strathcona County Communications
780-410-659