Wildrose celebrates Be Brave Ranch facility purchase by Little Warriors

EDMONTON, AB (November 28, 2013): Today, the Wildrose Official Opposition celebrated the purchase of the facility which will become the Be Brave Ranch by Little Warriors, and congratulated the organization for driving this critical project forward despite a lack of support from the PC government.

The Be Brave Ranch is a therapeutic wellness facility dedicated to the treatment of children who have suffered the horror of sexual abuse.

The facility, which models some of the world’s best practices for helping children recover from the mental and physical trauma of sexual abuse, will initially help 100 children per year during its trial phase.  Despite repeated requests for government support, to date no government funding has been provided for the development or operation of the ranch.

“This is a great day for Alberta families and children who are struggling with the horror of child sexual abuse,” Wildrose Leader Danielle Smith said.  “The Be Brave Ranch will provide the support and treatment these children need to face the future with strength and confidence.”

Today’s announcement comes at the same time as the government is facing increased scrutiny and criticism regarding its child protection and welfare policies.  A thorough media investigation has resulted in a number of glaring oversights, bureaucratic delays, and accountability gaps coming to light regarding the province’s handling and reviews of deaths of children in the care of the government.

“Groups like Little Warriors are showing real leadership in providing meaningful, effective treatment protocols for children who have been sexually abused,” Wildrose Human Services Critic Jeff Wilson said.  “Bottom line, this government should be investing in organizations like Little Warriors who are making a real difference in the lives of children.”

The Wildrose Caucus Foundation, funded by Wildrose MLAs who donated their government-mandated eight percent pay raises, made a $25,000 contribution to the Be Brave Ranch and Little Warriors in 2012.

The ranch is expected to be completed and operational for its two-year trial phase in June 2014.