The Alberta government is earmarking $2 million for the 2026–27 Youth Suicide Prevention Grant program to bolster mental health supports for at-risk youth, particularly in rural and Indigenous communities.
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Applications for the funding opened on May 4 and will remain available until June 1. The initiative, now in its sixth year, aims to fund community-led projects that reduce suicide attempts through targeted intervention and increased access to resources.
Searle Turton, minister of children and family services, said the grants are designed to ensure young people have timely access to help.
“Youth suicide is preventable, and every young person deserves timely access to help when they need it,” Turton said in a release. “These grants will support the important work communities are doing to strengthen prevention efforts.”
Since its inception, the program has funded more than 30 projects, reaching over 5,000 youth. Previous recipients have used the capital to host “teen nights” to build social belonging and integrate mental health coaching into youth sports.
Rick Wilson, minister of mental health and addiction, noted the program focuses on building resiliency and helping youth “thrive” through community-based care.
The investment was welcomed by Mara Grunau, CEO of the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Alberta division.
“Alberta’s continued investment in youth suicide prevention helps strengthen supports, reduce stigma and ensure more young people and their families can access care earlier,” Grunau said.
Albertans seeking immediate support can contact 211 Alberta or call or text the 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline at any time.
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