Alberta is investing in restorative justice as part of its 2026 budget, committing $1.3 million to programs aimed at healing communities and reducing pressure on the courts. Of that, $720,000 has been distributed to 19 organizations, municipalities, and Indigenous communities through the Restorative Justice Grant.
The funding supports initiatives that focus on accountability for offenders while helping victims recover from harm. Grants of up to $50,000 will go toward operational activities during the 2025–26 fiscal year.
Justice Minister Mickey Amery says the investment will foster meaningful change across the province, strengthening families and communities. Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney highlighted the importance of culturally grounded approaches, noting the funding will help rebuild relationships and address the root causes of crime.
Restorative justice offers an alternative to traditional court proceedings by encouraging dialogue between those affected by crime and those responsible. The approach is also seen as a way to ease Alberta’s court backlog.
Community organizations say the funding is a positive step. Native Counselling Services of Alberta CEO Marlene Orr called it a commitment to public safety through healing and prevention, including the Peace River Region Restorative Justice Association.
For many communities, the investment represents a shift toward justice that focuses not just on punishment, but on repair and reconciliation.
Keith Hopper, Trending 55
