Turning Point Society is a non-profit organization in Red Deer, Alberta that was established in 1988 as a community-based response to Central Alberta’s AIDS crisis. Until 2015 we were formally known as CAANS (Central Alberta Aids Network Society). For 37 years, we have responded to the multidimensional health concerns and needs of our community through a harm reduction approach. Our agency embraces the complex needs of our clients. Through critical programming, we continue to meet people where they are right now, supporting clients and communities with acceptance, compassion, respect, collaboration, and empowerment.
With a heavy heart, we are spreading the word that we have been handed some big changes to navigate. The majority of our funding is being discontinued and we will be winding down a large part of our programming as of November 1, 2025.
These funding cuts account for the majority of our yearly budget and programs. More importantly, this puts our clients and community at risk - particularly with this transition occurring right before winter hits our city. Right now we are focusing on staying open to provide food and shelter for our houseless population during daytime hours in the winter months. This also gives us time to look for grants and other funding. Having a chance to rebuild our agency while keeping our most vulnerable safe and out of the elements is our biggest priority.
The following programs are to be closed as a result of our cuts (please note these are very brief descriptions and not all encompassing of the work which occurs in those programs):
- Women's Program: Pregnancy, parenting, case management supports and more to women at risk, in poverty and on the streets
- Health Promotion: STBBI wrap around supports & education, harm reduction supply access, referrals, IDs and more for marginalized & vulnerable persons locally and rurally
- Test & Treat: STBBI testing and treatments in office and at rural and local agencies & events including but not limited to Syphilis with a focus on vulnerable populations
- Downtown Drop in: Access to basic needs, wound care, warm weather space, phone, bathroom and wrap around supports. This space is open to everyone but frequented by 80-120 people daily namely those experiencing homelessness and complex health needs
These cuts are significant, and we are currently strategizing transition and sustainability planning with hopes that in recognition of the vital and essential services we provide - there can be a more supportive solution than a full closure of these programs so quickly.
Your contribution would go directly to keeping our downtown drop-in building open. It is vital that Red Deer has multiple spaces for people to go during the winter months. Our shelters are not accessible to everyone due to safety, bans, or conflict of interest. Funds raised from this would go towards covering operational costs such as utilities, building maintenance, administrative expenses and staffing, supplementing donations, food, hygiene supplies, and period products. You will be contributing to keeping people safe, fed, and out of the elements. To be transparent, we will be making an update with a breakdown of costs and allocation of donations.
How else can I help?
- You can address your concerns with our local MLA's
- You can help share your experiences and support to Turning Point
- You can attend our upcoming International Overdose Awareness Day event on August 29th in solidarity. It is being held at Rotary Picnic Park from 12pm-3pm.
From all of us at Turning Point, we send a very heart felt thank you for considering. Taking care of of our community deeply matters to all of us. Our guests and community members speak endlessly of the lasting impact we have made as an agency.
Co-organizers3
Turning Point
Organizer
Red Deer, AB
Turning Point Society of Central Alberta
Beneficiary
Elizabeth Aulenback
Co-organizer
Jessie Arthur
Co-organizer