Love a Shelter Campaign invites Albertans to thank frontline shelter workers this February

Officials note that shelter workers play a critical role in Alberta’s response to gender-based violence. They provide safety, stability, and compassion during some of the most difficult moments in people’s lives.

It’s acknowledged their work is emotionally demanding, often invisible, and essential to the wellbeing of communities across the province.

“Shelter workers are the backbone of Alberta’s safety net,” says Cat Champagne, executive director of ACWS, in a press release. “They show up day after day with care, professionalism, and heart. Love a Shelter is one way we can show them that their work matters and that communities across Alberta stand behind them.”

Officials say recent reporting and public conversations have highlighted the ongoing realities of gender-based violence in Alberta, particularly during high-stress periods and holidays. While policy discussions and systems-level responses are critical, ACWS says there is also a role for everyday acts of community care.

“A few kind words can go a long way,” says Champagne. “Encouragement doesn’t replace the need for sustainable funding or systemic change but it does remind people on the frontlines that they are seen, valued, and not alone.”

This year, organizers say Valentine messages will be mailed to the ACWS office and distributed by ACWS to shelters across Alberta. They note that coordinating the collection and distribution centrally allows shelter teams to focus on their work, while ensuring messages of support reach staff throughout the province.

As the provincial network organization, ACWS says it works alongside member shelters every day, strengthening the people and systems that support survivors through training, research, advocacy, and collaboration. Love a Shelter is described as one small but visible reflection of that ongoing commitment.

“Supporting shelter workers strengthens shelters,” says Champagne. “And when shelters are strong, communities are safer.”

Albertans can participate by downloading a Valentine template or creating their own message of encouragement and mailing it to ACWS.

More information, templates, and mailing details are available at acws.ca/loveashelter.

by rdnewsNOW Staff

Love a Shelter Campaign invites Albertans to thank frontline shelter workers this February

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