The Alberta Seventh Step Society is a private, not-for-profit, charitable organization working within the Criminal Justice System to assist offenders and ex-offenders in achieving and maintaining their freedom and become responsible, contributing members of their communities. Our philosophy is based on the belief that people can change by way of offering a wide variety of pre and post-release services to federal offenders.
Our largest program is our Community Residential Facility (Halfway House) which operates 24/7 and houses up to 35 adult male offenders transitioning from federal incarceration into the community. Gradual, appropriately supervised reintegration combined with the necessary goals and treatment plans reduce recidivism, thereby, decreasing risk and increasing community safety.
With the current state of COVID-19, it is of utmost importance to our agency to provide the safest environment for both our residents and our staff. Due to social distancing, loss of employment, and increased mental health struggles with our residents, the increase in demand for services has been paramount. In order to protect the emotional and physical well being our of residents, there has been an increased cost for more sanitization products and Personal Protective Equipment (gloves, masks, medical-grade cleaning supplies), as well as increased demand for mental health counselling with so many individuals having to be distanced from their loved ones and main supports in the community. Isolation is a heavy barrier to individuals maintaining their sobriety, mental health, and physical health and any funds donated could assist in ensuring there are adequate supports in place at all times, as well as being able to provide hygiene products and leisure activities (art supplies, board games, etc.,) within the residence for individuals to be able to use their time constructively. Release from prison is a crucial time for these individuals to rebuild their positive identities within their communities and COVID-19 has drastically reduced the ability for our residents to do so.
Your assistance will contribute to the safety and well-being of our communities and continue to give these men the second chance that they have earned.