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By rdnewsNOW staff

Vital programming

Queer Neighbours Society organizes protest in support of local organizations facing government cutbacks

Aug 23, 2025 | 8:00 AM

A protest has been set for this Sunday in support of Red Deer organizations at risk of provincial government cutbacks.

Organized by Queer Neighbours Society of Red Deer, the rally will be held at city hall in downtown Red Deer on Sunday, Aug. 24 at 1 p.m.

The organization says they’re holding the protest because of the provincial government’s intention to reduce funding for preventative programming in the city.

“These programs play a crucial role in offering support and education to some of the most vulnerable members of our community. As more individuals may face difficulties in accessing the assistance they require, the repercussions of these funding cuts will likely have a profoundly negative effect on our community,” states a media release from the organization.

“This demonstration aims to express our support and solidarity, as we firmly believe that the services provided by these local organizations are vital to our community. These funding cuts indicate a disconnect between the government and the residents of Red Deer and the surrounding areas. Such reductions will undoubtedly harm the most vulnerable members of our community.”

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Most recently, Turning Point Society of Alberta, a community agency located in Red Deer for the last 37 years, said they could be at risk of closing its doors after the provincial government pulled all funding, effective Nov. 1.

The Queer Neighbours Society of Red Deer says the Sendero Centre may not be able to continue to offer free counselling because of cutbacks. rdnewsNOW previously reported at the end of May, the Sendero Centre was in dire straights and that they needed to raise $300,000 to avoid cutting services.

“We are calling on all members of our community here in Red Deer and the surrounding area to join us in supporting these invaluable organizations,” they added in the release.