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(Image Credit: Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre/Facebook)
Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre

Go Blue Open House to bring community together for Child Abuse Prevention Month

Oct 7, 2026 | 1:54 PM

The Go Blue Open House, which is set to take place at the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre and the Sheldon Kennedy Centre of Excellence, is meant to recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month.

On Wednesday, Oct. 14, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., families and members of the public are invited to join an afternoon of fun, connection and community at the free event.

While there, attendees will get the opportunity to tour the facility, meet staff, and learn more about the programs and services available to children, youth and families in the region.

They’ll also be able to meet the Dogs with Wings facility dogs, visit a balloon artist and face painter, grab a glitter tattoo, try different crafts and games, and learn more about what the Child Advocacy Centre does. Free stuffies will also be available for the first 100 kids.

This month, Heal Red Deer will be donating $1 to the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre from every purchase of a blue magic smoothie. These drinks will also be available for purchase at the open house.

“Every child has a future worth protecting. This October, during Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre is bringing our community together through Go Blue Month with one powerful message: Protect Our Future,” they wrote in a post on Facebook. “Protecting children means creating safe environments, knowing the signs of abuse and exploitation, having conversations about safety, listening when children speak, and taking action when something isn’t right. When we all play a role in prevention, we help create a community where children and youth can grow, thrive, and build the future they deserve.”

Meanwhile, Alberta Minister of Children and Family Services Searle Turton delivered a statement on Child Abuse Prevention Month.

He said that every child deserves to be safe, supported and live a life free from abuse.

“We know preventing child abuse starts with ensuring families have the supports they need before challenges become crises. For example, Family Resource Networks bring together supports and services focused on prevention and early intervention to help families build strength, confidence and connections close to home.

“Alberta’s government is also investing in specialized supports for those impacted by sexual violence and abuse, including $3.7 million for child and youth advocacy centres. These centres provide safe, supportive spaces where children, youth and families can access help and services after experiencing abuse. We also invested $17 million this year to support 15 sexual assault centres across the province and the Association of Alberta Sexual Assault Centres. As a result, more children and youth can access the counselling, treatment and specialized supports they need to heal and build brighter futures.

“Child abuse can affect children and youth from any background, community or region of our province. Knowing the signs of abuse and neglect, speaking up when concerns arise, and supporting children, youth and families can make a life-changing difference.

“If you are concerned about a child’s safety or well-being, do not wait. The Child Intervention Line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-638-0715. You can also contact the nearest Children and Family Services office, Delegated First Nations Agency or local police.

“This October, I invite people across Alberta to #GoBlueAB and show their support for Child Abuse Prevention Month.

“Whether you are a teacher, coach, neighbour, caregiver or family member, your actions can make a difference in a child’s life. Together, we can help ensure Alberta’s children and youth know they are safe and protected.”