2023/2024 Annual Report

Brick by Brick

Building Change,

Dismantling Stigma.

SafeLink Alberta

Annual Report 2023-2024

About SafeLink Alberta

Mission

Our mission at SafeLink Alberta is to reduce the harms associated with sexual activity and substance use by offering low-barrier, non-judgmental, and informed programs and services.

We believe that everyone deserves access to healthcare services and support, regardless of their background or lifestyle.

Vision

1. Innovation:

2. Collaboration:

Our vision at SafeLink Alberta is to create inclusive, empowered, and healthier communities.

We strive to promote health equity and reduce health disparities among marginalized populations. Through our work, we hope to empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being, and to foster a community that values diversity, respect, and compassion.

Our New Organizational Values

Innovation is like a spark that turns regular ideas into remarkable solutions. It’s the process of blending creativity, curiosity, and a touch of audacity to create something extraordinary. It’s about turning everyday concepts into groundbreaking innovations that elevate how we work and help make SafeLink Alberta a leader in improving health outcomes by reducing risk(s).

Collaboration is when we come together to create harmonious success. It’s the art of blending resources, expertise, and cooperative efforts to achieve shared goals. When done intentionally, collaboration leads to improved services and unique solutions for the communities we serve.

3. Kindness:

Kindness is what helps turn ordinary moments into human connections. It’s the art of mixing compassion, empathy, and generosity to create something truly remarkable, taking everyday interactions and turning them into acts of care that elevate how we treat one another and how we make SafeLink Alberta a non-judgmental and empowering community to be a part of.

4. Authenticity:

Authenticity guides us to honest and heartfelt connections. It’s the practice of being genuine in our interactions and demonstrating accountability through transparency. By embracing sincerity, we cultivate trust and build meaningful connections, creating safer environments for engagement and support at SafeLink Alberta.

5. Justice:

Justice is fairness and dignity for all, regardless of circumstance. It is the commitment to dismantling systems of oppression and promoting a society where everyone enjoys equal opportunities and fair treatment. At SafeLink Alberta, we stand as advocates for and drivers of this justice, striving to create inclusive, empowered, and healthier communities.

Our IDEA Approach

Over the past year, the Inclusive. Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) committee continued its engagement with GEDI Hub, an initiative of Gateway Association, to complete an agency DEI assessment and develop an action plan for the committee’s work moving forward.

The IDEA committee’s work over the past year has included developing new human resources policies to systematically embed anti-racism approach into our recruitment and onboarding processes. Examples of this include: a policy to address hiring gaps, new interview questions to ensure commitment to our diversity, equity, and justice work, re-examining and publishing new agency values (of which one is Justice) and producing a draft declarative statement on anti-racism and anti-oppression. The IDEA Committee also expanded its focus to include accessibility efforts (hence the A in I.D.E.A.) and completed community consultations regarding accessibility in our drop-in spaces.

The committee has organized several meaningful training sessions for staff this past year, including a full day participatory training on the impacts of systemic racism in the workplace and a session on navigating decolonization and inclusive excellence in the non-profit sector. A document called ‘Brave Working Space Guidelines for White Participants’ was also created in consultation with the GEDI hub. This document is used to hold white staff members accountable to upholding anti-racism values in their positions.

Although this work is ongoing and there is much still to be done, SafeLink Alberta has been able to make meaningful strides towards a more equitable and inclusive workplace in the past year through the work of a dedicated internal IDEA committee, the commitment and passion of our entire staff team and Board, and with the support of external consultants, GEDI Hub.

Letter from Our Executive Director and Board Chair

These are difficult challenging times in the community, a time of crisis for so many. Despite the increasing complexity of the world we live in, we are incredibly proud of the work done by SafeLink Alberta team members in the community.

Never before has SafeLink Alberta experienced such a high demand for outreach services, drop-in centre services, case management supports, peer support, and education services. The needs we are seeing in the community are increasingly complex and are compounded by multiple community and health sector barriers, delays, and shortages. We hear daily how hard things are out there for folks – the shortage of affordable housing, the increasing cost of food and utilities, the numbers of folks having to live rough, the ongoing toxic drug supply and drug poisoning crisis, the grief of losing loved ones, and the difficulties navigating our health care system. In Alberta, 2023 was officially the deadliest year for opioid overdoses on record. New provincial data shows 1,867 people died from opioid use in 2023. More than 4 Albertans are dying from drug poisoning events every day.

Alberta's population also surged by a record-setting 202,324 people in 2023 - the largest annual increase on record. Sixty-five percent of this population growth is related to temporary or permanent immigration. The number of newcomers we see accessing our services reflects these statistics, and the needs experienced by newcomers can be quite complex. Navigating language barriers, immigration and legal challenges, and issues accessing HIV treatment are common.

Every day, staff make meaningful connections with community members and support them to access health care services, housing, food/other basic needs, and substance use detox & treatment programs based on their personal goals. Our staff greet them with a smile and treat each and every person accessing our services with kindness, compassion, respect, and dignity.

The SafeLink Alberta 2023-24 annual report highlights the collective efforts, achievements, and impact we have made over the past year. We continue our mission to provide programs and services that reduce the risks associated with sexual activity and substance use in Calgary and Medicine Hat.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to our funders, donors, community partners, and multiple volunteers who have generously supported us in our mission. Your contributions have enabled us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of so many individuals. Together, we are making progress towards a more inclusive and healthier community.

Katie Ayres, Executive Director and Dianne Dyer, Board Chair

13,929

Safer Sex Supplies

We supply safer sex supplies not only to individuals who visit our drop-in space but also to other service providers across Calgary and Medicine Hat. The distribution of safer sex supplies and education on how to properly use them is proven to be effective in preventing the transmission of STIs such as HIV, Hepatitis C, and Syphilis.

107,384

Safer Substance Use Supplies

People can reduce their risk of sexually transmitted and blood borne infections (STBBI’s), drug poisonings, and other substance-related harms by applying evidence-based strategies around safer substance use. Strategies include: access to sterile supplies to reduce the risk of contracting infectious diseases from injecting or smoking drugs, provision of naloxone kits and education on managing a drug poisoning event, and onsite STBBI testing and treatment services.

2,388

Naloxone Kits

Naloxone is a drug that reverses opioid drug poisonings. Often these are referred to as overdoses, but that is not always the case. In Alberta, a toxic and unregulated drug supply often means that people who use substances do not know precisely what is in them. This can cause poisoning from drugs like fentanyl or other contaminants. Naloxone reverses poisoning from opioids and having it in the hands of community members saves lives.

327

HIV Self-Testing Kits

Stigma is one of the most significant barriers to HIV prevention and care; access is another. HIV self-testing kits aim to address both by allowing a person to test for HIV in a place of their choosing. We provide these kits in the community at our booths and through our drop-in spaces in Calgary and Medicine Hat. Th test results inform individuals of their HIV status, and SafeLink Alberta offers links to support and information if the test is positive.

124,028

Total Supplies Distributed

Building Blocks of a Community

Calgary Outreach Collaboration

Our Calgary-based street outreach team has actively fostered connections with our participants and other organizations providing outreach services. Known for our safe and non-judgmental approach, we collaborate with different social service agencies, broadening the options for support available to our street-based participants. SafeLink Alberta founded and still co-chairs the Calgary Outreach Collective and consistently collaborate with seven organizations. Through our partnerships and involvement in community events like 'Feed The People,' we amplify our impact.

We also lend support to other outreach teams after a community drug poisoning. Our joint debriefing sessions following incidents exemplify the value of sharing experiences and insights. These sessions facilitate communication and humanize our work, fostering a holistic understanding of community outreach efforts and enhancing their effectiveness.

Medicine Hat Advocacy Win: Biohazard Bins

After years of dedicated advocacy in Medicine Hat, we are thrilled to share the permanent installation of two biohazard containers in our local parks. By making it easier for people to safely dispose of their used materials, we are reducing the potential risk of injury and STBBI transmission posed by loose discarded sharps.

The placement of these biohazard bins is a significant step towards ensuring the safety of our entire Medicine Hat community. Now, you can safely dispose of substance-use materials and other hazardous objects like broken glass, sharp metal, and discarded blades like razors. These biohazard bins were also provided to the City’s Transit, Parks, and Fire and Emergency Services at no cost

This achievement is the result of the advocacy of our SafeLink Alberta Medicine Hat team. The successful implementation of the Needle Debris Response Program, which includes comprehensive education for individuals using substance-use equipment, business owners, city parks, and maintenance personnel, is a testament to our collective commitment to community safety and cleanliness. .

Broadening Our Impact: Investing in Students

2023 was our first year taking in Clinical Nursing students from both Mount Royal University and the University of Calgary in our Calgary office. The Clinical Nursing students work on educational materials for participants throughout the semester, and support the drop-in and outreach teams. We also welcomed students from the Cummings School of Medicine, offering them a unique perspective that often diverges from their academic training.

This exposure has prompted some medical students to reconsider their career paths, understanding the necessity for a more compassionate approach in healthcare management. The practical projects and direct interactions with participants have been profoundly impactful. For example, a Filipino nursing student was able to communicate effectively with a client who only spoke Tagalog, underscoring the significance of cultural and linguistic connections in healthcare. These experiences not only enrich the students' education but also inspire them to pursue community nursing, ultimately fostering a more compassionate healthcare system. By investing in these students, we aim to instigate long-term changes in healthcare practices and perspectives, benefiting our participants and the broader community.

We would not be able to do this work without the financial support of the RBC Foundation - thank you RBC!

32 Practicum Students logged over 3000 hours at Safelink Alberta in 2023-2024.

Medicine Hat Support Services Update

"We offer non-judgmental services and supports that are accessible to all and different from anything else that's being offered by other social service agencies in Medicine Hat. Our focus is on creating a safe and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and supported, regardless of their background or needs" - Katie Ayres, Executive Director

SafeLink Alberta in Medicine Hat stands out as a unique service provider in the community. We are not just building change but doing so with programming distinctively grounded in reducing risks. These initiatives provide essential resources and prevent the transmission of STBBIs. As a result, we have fostered strong relationships and promoted well-being among Medicine Hat residents.

Our Medicine Hat office offers essential support services, including drop-in access to safer substance use and sex supplies, naloxone kits, basic food and hygiene supplies, and referrals. We provide empathetic peer support for people who use substances, personalized case management, emotional support, crisis intervention, and service navigation. Our outreach team distributes supplies, offers support, and cleans needle debris downtown several days a week. We also provide safe, low-barrier services and support to people experiencing pregnancy and vulnerabilities. These services ensure holistic care, addressing immediate needs and supporting long-term well-being.

Our strategic partnerships with local agencies, such as Alberta Health Services (AHS) and the Mustard Seed, have been pivotal in expanding our reach. These collaborations, which include initiatives like in-house STBBI testing clinics and street-level outreach, have significantly enhanced our service delivery, ensuring greater accessibility and inclusivity. The result is comprehensive support and streamlined access to essential services for our clients.

Education is also a cornerstone of our approach. We have prioritized delivering sessions on universal precautions and substance use, with a focus on substance use and pregnancy to diverse community stakeholders. Engaging with the community through these educational initiatives fosters a sense of solidarity and collective responsibility. Additionally, we collaborate with Medicine Hat College, offering practicum and educational sessions to students. Through this programming, we disseminate vital health promotion information, shaping future health and social service professionals. Our involvement in events like Pride in the Park and thematic weeks at the college has further solidified our presence and fostered trust within the community.

As an organization, our approach goes beyond providing supplies; it is about building trust and relationships. Participants often seek social connections and support that transcend material needs. This trust-based approach creates a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals feel safe and supported.

Needle Debris Response

Our Medicine Hat office operates a Needle Debris Response Program, ensuring the prompt removal of needles and other substance use debris. We also provide free biohazard containers, including wall-mount options with secure locking mechanisms, for safe disposal in locations like bathrooms and alleyways.

Our Needle Debris Response Program collected over 350 needles, pipes, and related debris in 2023, and we destroyed 356kg of biohazardous materials.

"The people who access our services basically own the space. It is their artwork on the walls, and we promote their information and expertise. This creates a sense of ownership and empowerment, making the space truly reflective of the community it serves" -Marie Tounissoux , Manager, Medicine Hat Support Services

6666

464

Outreach

Contacts

Outreach

Events

707

Total

Number

Referrals

Received Case Management

5499

Total Needs Addressed

Hot Doggin’ BBQ Event

In 2023, we held impactful events like the Hot Doggin' BBQ on May 5th, 2023, to mark International Harm Reduction Day. This event, which served 37 individuals and provided a free meal, was a resounding success in engaging the community and spreading awareness, as evidenced by the positive feedback and the decision to make it an annual occurrence.

"What we do is a lot more than just transactional. It's about building trust and relationships with the people who come through our doors. This trust-based approach sets us apart and helps create a community where participants feel genuinely cared for and connected" - Megan Williamson, Director of Programs

This is a stock photo. Not a photo of Anong.

Anong’s Story

Before connecting with SafeLink Alberta, Anong was in a difficult position. She was pregnant and struggling with substance use. Anong, an Ojibwe woman from Manitoba, has been residing in Medicine Hat for the past decade. She had challenges from a young age, which led her to use substances to cope.

A friend informed Anong of SafeLink Alberta's work with people who use substances and the Well Program. The Well Program is a Medicine Hat-based program that provides safe, low-barrier services and support to people experiencing pregnancy with the aim to improve the health and wellbeing of vulnerable women and the infants born to them. The program works with people experiencing barriers such as homelessness, substance use, and previous involvement with Child and Family Services.

A lifeline during her pregnancy when she felt lost and alone.

Initially skeptical, Anong found solace in the non-judgmental support from her case managers. Their unwavering assistance helped her attend appointments. She shares that she would have been scared to go to those appointments alone, “First I had some really bad trust issues. I didn't really trust anyone... it was really hard for me to believe at first that the case managers were really on my team, but they were. It was just getting to appointments, things that I was scared to do on my own, because you know, the people will judge, right? It's natural. ”

Anong stabilized and accessed medical care through the Well Program throughout her pregnancy and for up to two years now. She shares, “Like a huge thing was connection. Still, I don't really talk to too many people. I still don't. But just making me still feel connected to people and showing that they still cared. They would show up to my doctor's appointments, make sure that my voice is being heard because of my mental health issues.”

Anong shares that she felt the Well Program helped her connect with her community in Medicine Hat, “My workers were really resourceful connecting me with other programs within the community, anything that I needed... With me being First Nations, we had a lot of discussions learning from each other and it was really good.”

Anong discontinued her substance use after being diagnosed with schizophrenia in December 2023, with continued support from SafeLink Alberta. She shares that one major success for her is reconnecting with her children. With the continued assistance of the Well program, she is now a full-time mom, “My son is finally starting to trust again and he's actually enjoying things. He's not worried that I'm never gonna come back. And my littlest one, he's just growing. He's healthy. He's funny like, he's just up to no good.”

Anong describes SafeLink Alberta as invaluable, stating that it gave her hope and restored her life, improving her children's lives in the process. When asked to share her thoughts on the program, Anong shares “Women that are pregnant, they're already so vulnerable. If you're in addiction, you're vulnerable. So, having both those things, and having the nurse on staff knowing what you're going through, I think it's really important to still have that connection with people without the judgment. Just having that strong support system when you're already going through a really hard time.”

“They made sure that my needs were being met. And gave just really huge support. My worker was there for all my court dates with my kids and, you know, just getting through those really tough times and focusing on what's important and, you know, they would. It was just a lot of support.”

The Well Program supported 10 people, and assisted in the care of 5 babies from 2023-2024.

Calgary Support Services Update

"One of the things that I see the team do on a daily basis is that they focus a lot on building rapport and building connections with anybody who walks through our door. They make this a very safe, inclusive space where anybody - whether it's their first time or hundredth time - is welcome” - Katie Ayres, Executive Director

Calgary Support Services continues to make significant strides in providing essential support to our priority populations, emphasizing inclusivity, community building, and personalized care. Our programs, which include drop-in services, peer support, case management, and outreach services, address the diverse needs of individuals accessing our services and directly reduce the transmission of STBBIs.

Our drop-in services offer a safe space where individuals can access safer substance use supplies, safer sex supplies, naloxone kits, and basic food and hygiene supplies. We provide information, referrals, and advocacy to address service barriers. The drop-in space hosts activities like movies, karaoke, crafts, monthly indigenous elder visits, and weekly knowledge-keeper sessions that provide cultural support and traditional medicines.

Peer support is a cornerstone of our programming, offering both individual and group support for people living with HIV. We also run group-based peer support for sex workers, including a dedicated group for trans sex workers. These programs aim to create a supportive community where participants can share experiences and receive emotional support.

Case management services are comprehensive and individualized, engaging participants in developing personalized service plans. Our case managers provide emotional support, crisis intervention, and education while navigating a network of services for participants. This includes bridging communication gaps between participants and service providers, attending and arranging case conferences, and accompanying participants to appointments. Our specialized case managers focus on Indigenous communities, African Caribbean Black communities, current and former sex workers, and those living with HIV or Hepatitis C.

Our outreach team actively engages with the community by operating downtown and with the help of our community partners, Westbrook and Chinook. They provide supplies, food, clothing and conduct housing check-ins, building relationships with individuals experiencing homelessness. Our distinctive yellow backpacks have become a symbol of our presence in the community.

At the core of our programming lies a commitment to treating individuals with humanity and respect. We prioritize building rapport and connections with every person who walks through our doors, ensuring they feel welcome and supported regardless of their background or circumstances. By addressing each participant by name and creating a safe, inclusive space, we cultivate an environment where trust can flourish. This emphasis on personalized care has garnered positive feedback from both participants and external service providers, affirming the effectiveness of our approach in meeting the unique needs of those we serve.

As we reflect on the past year, it is evident that Calgary Support Services plays a vital role in supporting the well-being of our participants and the broader community. Through our holistic approach to service provision, emphasis on inclusivity, and commitment to community building, we remain dedicated to creating a more compassionate and supportive environment for all. Moving forward, we will continue to adapt and innovate our programs to better meet the evolving needs of those we serve, ensuring everyone has access to the support and resources they need to thrive.

"When people come in, we treat them with humanity. We say hi to them, we use their names. That’s huge for people. It makes them feel seen and recognized" - Kelsey Moore, Lead, Outreach & Peer Services

Christmas in our Drop-In Space

Throughout the year, we organize events and initiatives to provide additional support and foster a sense of belonging among participants. Our annual Christmas event shows our commitment to supporting individuals during challenging times. By offering activities such as decorating, gingerbread house making, and a potluck, we create opportunities for connection and joy. The distribution of hygiene supplies and backpacks filled with essentials further reinforces our dedication to meeting the immediate needs of our participants, thanks to generous donations from local organizations and individuals.

Booth Outreach

Tabling our SafeLink Alberta informational booth with supplies and resources for risk reduction and STBBI prevention offers an interactive and engaging way to connect with communities and groups. Our booth, equipped with printed resources, safer sex, and safer substance use supplies, facilitates direct educational conversations with SafeLink Alberta’s staff. We participate in diverse events, partnering with college and university student events, Calgary and other community Pride events, the Taboo Sex Show, the Kinky Flea Market, private business events, and various drag shows, supported by ongoing collaborations with partners like the ISCCA-SA.

"Our participants trust us so much that automatically they’re like ‘this is a safe person’. They're going to trust that person and help also build our community partner's capacity as well. " - Monika Kiegelmann, Manager, Calgary Support Services

14,151

15,602

Outreach

Contacts

Total Needs Addressed

2,571

The Drumbeat Program

The African Kitchen event, spearheaded by our African Caribbean Black Communities Case Manager under the Drumbeat program, exemplifies our efforts to connect with ACB communities. Through traditional food, cooking demonstrations, and discussions on HIV and STIs, we provide valuable resources and create spaces for stigma reduction and learning. The success of this event underscores the importance of culturally relevant programming in engaging participants and addressing community-specific needs.

Total

Number

Referrals

185

Received Case Management

649

Outreach

Events

This is a stock photo. Not a photo of Tendai.

Tendai’s Story

Tendai is a resilient woman from Zimbabwe, located in Southern Africa. A mother of four children—two boys and two girls—and a grandmother of two, her journey to a new life in Canada is one of determination and hope. In April 2017, she arrived in Canada on a business visa valid for ten years, initially allowed to stay for two years. However, by early 2022, Tendai faced significant challenges and uncertainties, prompting her to claim asylum.

As a woman living with HIV, Tendai first learned about SafeLink Alberta in 2018. Introduced by a fellow Zimbabwean woman working there, she soon became an active participant in the organization. SafeLink Alberta provided a welcoming community where Tendai could connect with other African and Caribbean women. Through the Drumbeat program sessions, participants learned to cook and discussed crucial topics, mainly focusing on HIV. "We talked especially about HIV; that was the main topic. She always told us about HIV and how we should have to conquer the stigma," Tendai shared, highlighting the importance of these sessions in her life.

In early 2022, after claiming asylum, Tendai encountered numerous hardships. She vividly remembers her first visit to SafeLink Alberta during this difficult time.

Life was incredibly tough, desperately needed necessities like toiletries. Her case manager and the staff at SafeLink Alberta provided her with what she needed, and their support didn't stop there.

SafeLink Alberta was crucial in helping Tendai navigate her new life in Canada by supporting her educational needs, providing a laptop and school supplies, enabling her to continue her studies. Despite the challenges, Tendai excelled in school, "I thank God that all the staff members at SafeLink welcomed me. Even though I would find Kennedy in her office when I entered the door, other staff members would always welcome me," she recounted. Her case manager provided her with emotional support, often checking in on her to see how she was coping with her new life.

Tendai also encountered housing challenges. Initially, she stayed with a friend, but it wasn't a permanent solution. SafeLink Alberta helped her apply for housing, funding for her education, discounted transit tickets and other essential support, enabling her to manage her daily life and school needs.

Throughout her journey, the services from SafeLink Alberta have been a continued support for Tendai and pillar in helping her rebuild her life in Canada. "SafeLink Alberta has been like a lifeline for me, providing not only practical help but also emotional and social support," she reflected.

"Without the support of SafeLink Alberta, I don't know where I would be today," she expressed, grateful for the guidance and assistance that have helped her find a path to stability and hope.

*The participant’s name was changed to protect their identity*

"When I came to SafeLink, I met Kennedy. She welcomed me, introduced herself, and asked how she could help me," she said.

This is a stock photo. Not a photo of Don.

Don’s Story

Don visits our Calgary Drop-in space, where he can socialize, watch a hockey game, or have a snack. Don is an Indigenous man in his fifties; he accesses SafeLink Alberta services for those struggling with substance use. In his words, "I got placed in foster care when I was two years old, April 2nd as a matter of fact, it was. I remember that. I also got kicked out of that same foster home when I was 16. You know, I was confused and getting into fights in school. I was dysfunctional. I learned to mix drinks at five in that foster home."

After growing into an adult, Don moved to Calgary almost 24 years ago after a brief period in Edmonton. He first encountered SafeLink Alberta while walking past our old location on 10th Ave SW. He says he walked past it for years without knowing what it was until a friend introduced him to the organization, where he felt he discovered numerous resources and kind people.

Speaking with Don, he shared the impact that substance use has had on his life, including the loss of several friends. Despite these challenges, he maintains a positive outlook. Observing wildlife like coyotes in the city has become a source of newfound fascination and happiness for him.

He is preparing to enter treatment just a few days after his interview. Don chooses to access our service navigation, which helped him access treatment and look for housing. Accessing SafeLink Alberta’s services has provided him with a sense of community and family, which is particularly important given his losses and struggles.

When asked to advise others in his situation, Don expressed a desire to encourage a friend struggling to get into treatment. He aims to offer support and hopes that treatment can help them overcome some of the burdens they carry. "I'm just going to tell him as a Big Brother. Just go there, you know, take this time."

Don appreciates the opportunity to share his story and reflect on his journey. He highlighted the significance of support systems like SafeLink Alberta in providing stability and a sense of belonging. "There's always somewhere I can go where I know somebody will talk to me... I know I've got to know pretty much everybody here. I come here for peace and a little bit of sanity."

"All of these resources and all these kind people like three blocks from me. I had no idea. So, I started going in more regularly, got to know the staff, just how caring and supportive they are and going through so much loss on the street and like not really having good homes and everything that they are they have really become like family." - Don

Education

Program Update

“That for me is my favorite. To walk into a room filled with folks who are unsure and scared, and there's a stigma there. And then changing that within a one to three-hour training.” - Natasha, Manager, Education

SafeLink Alberta's Education Program has made significant strides in enhancing the understanding and support of marginalized communities in Calgary. Through our comprehensive 101 Education Series and the development of impactful toolkits, we have equipped service providers, community members, and organizations with the knowledge and skills to serve vulnerable populations better.

Our 101 Education Series offers various training sessions, including HIV 101, Substance Use 101, and Comprehensive Care 101, among others. These sessions are designed to provide participants with evidence-based knowledge and best practices rooted in our 40 years of experience and the voices of people with lived and living experience. The impact of this training has been profound. For instance, we have seen participants who previously held misconceptions about substance use now advocating for including risk reduction strategies. Others have reported feeling more confident in their ability to provide comprehensive care. These tangible changes in participants ' perspectives and skills demonstrate the effectiveness of our education program.

For example, during a recent training session, a participant shared that before attending, she believed that providing risk reduction supplies merely encouraged substance use. Through open conversation and accurate information provided during the training, she was able to shift her perspective and develop a greater sense of compassion, not only for others but also for herself. This transformation highlights the crucial role of our education program in reducing stigma and fostering empathy within the community.

As we look to the future, the demand for our educational sessions continues to grow, driven by effective social media outreach and word-of-mouth recommendations. This increasing demand underscores the urgency and importance of our program, and we plan to integrate more closely with outreach workers to ensure our education reflects the community's needs.

SafeLink Alberta's Education Program has significantly contributed to the community this year, and we couldn't have done it without you.

Service Provider Toolkits

SafeLink Alberta developed two major toolkits this year: "Shifting Perspectives: Addressing Barriers to Care for Sex Workers in Alberta" and "Party N' Play: Sex, Substance Use, and Safety." These toolkits are widely recognized for their practical insights and strategies.

Launched in January 2024, the Shifting Perspectives toolkit was created through extensive research and collaboration with sex workers and local organizations. It aims to counteract misinformation and stigma by providing a comprehensive understanding of the needs and realities of sex workers in Alberta. Service providers have praised its effectiveness in building trust and improving service quality.

Introduced in March 2024, the Party N' Play toolkit addresses the culture of chemsex, which refers to the use of substances to enhance sexual experiences. Feedback for both toolkits has been overwhelmingly positive, with many service providers expressing gratitude for their valuable insights and practical guidance.

One of the year's standout moments was our engagement with the Bridgeland Riverside Community Association. The Director of Activation and Safety initially approached us, expressing concerns about the growing stigma and fear surrounding homelessness and substance use in the community. We were invited to conduct an educational session, which was co-designed with the association to ensure it addressed the specific needs and concerns of the community.

The session with the Bridgeland Riverside Community Association began with a sense of apprehension from participants, reflecting the prevalent stigma and fear surrounding homelessness and substance use in the community. However, through open dialogue and the sharing of accurate information, the session transformed into a robust community forum. By the end of the two-hour presentation, every attendee had engaged in meaningful dialogue, learned how to administer naloxone, and left with a better understanding of how to make their community safer and more inclusive. The success of this event has led to regular invitations for similar community chats and educational sessions, further expanding our reach and impact.

161

Group Education Presentations

2,744

Group Education Contacts

“Whether it is someone who has joined us for that training, sharing their stories... We're chatting about people like our people, your neighbors, the people who you see every day, the folks who live in your city, the folks who are struggling. - Natasha, Manager, Education

152

Toolkit Downloads

Community Relations Update

Splash of Red

Our last Splash of Red event, the 11th Annual Splash of Red: Rhinestone Cowboy benefit took place on May 27th 2023! Hosted at the Fairmont Palliser, the event dazzled with glitz and cowboy flair, raising significant funds for SafeLink Alberta's essential services. The enthusiasm and generous support of of the community enables us to continue offering non-judgmental, low-barrier assistance to those in need. Stay tuned for upcoming fundraising events in 2024 and 2025.

AGM and Open House

On June 27th 2023, we welcomed community members to our new Calgary space during our Open House and Annual General Meeting. Attendees toured our drop-in facilities, learning about our impactful programs designed to reduce the risks associated with sexual activity and substance use. The evening culminated in our AGM, where we discussed our ongoing efforts and future plans. We appreciate everyone who joined us and look forward to continuing our mission with your support.

Calgary Pride

During Calgary Pride on September 2nd, SafeLink Alberta celebrated 40 years of commitment to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Marching in the parade, we shared over 3,000 condoms, stickers, and candy, promoting safe practices and unity. Our eye-catching balloon arch, made from blown up expired condoms, highlighted our creative approach to raising awareness. Thank you, Calgary, for your continued love and support as we strive for decades more of partnership and pride.

Social Media and Web: