Re: Funding Cuts - Post 6
Good Day,
I am writing to share my experience while working as Criminal Court Program Coordinator for Elizabeth Fry of Northern Alberta, in Fort McMurray. At first, I thought this was going to be challenging, and it was, however not in the way I had expected. I have helped to make many positive experiences for clients even in the short period of time we have expanded our court services to Fort McMurray. The story I would like to share is the one that touched me the most.
This happened my first month with in person court during Covid. Courts and Sheriffs were adapting and adjusting and only letting those on the dockets in the building. An individual attended court with their support worker. The client had significant health issues which is why they required support from a worker, but was told that only they could enter and that the support worker could not enter the courthouse. I approached them upstairs to see how I could help; they were extremely anxious. I have worked with this client before and knew their story. They were so upset while talking to me that they spilled coffee all over their shoe. I helped to clean it up and immediately headed to the Sherriff’s to advocate for this person and their support. They Sherrifs were very reluctant and hesitant, but with strong advocacy the support worker was let in to support the client. This reduced the client’s anxiety immediately.
The Crown was looking for detention time. I assisted the client to find their words to advocate to the Crown and Judge for no imprisonment due to their health, the positive wrap around supports and progress that they have made and continue to make. Crown made application to withdraw 2 charges and they were released on conditions. This client was so happy and grateful that they were in tears when thanking me for my help. I love my work and my position with Elizabeth Fry, I have the ability to really help people and make a small difference for my community.
Amber (staff)
December 2020
To whom it may concern,
My name is Mary. I have been a volunteer for the Elizabeth Fry Society (EFRY) since January 2017. I recently became aware of the decision by ALF to cut funding to the Elizabeth Fry Society of Alberta’s court program. I am very concerned about where this will leave vulnerable people who are trying to navigate the courts system.
I first applied to EFRY as a court-worker as I am passionate about at-risk youth. Working with youth is most critical to me, because any efforts to help deter a possible negative outcome earlier in life is better than fixing a deeply rooted problem later on. With my own personal experiences, I can relate with youth well and empathize with them greatly. I believe we are the product of our environments. Some individuals are not as fortunate, and grow up without the proper support systems or resources for their needs. In these cases, it's very hard to lead a successful, happy, and fulfilling life. Ideally, I hope that all youth have the opportunities to realize their full potentials and become positive individuals in society, and that they may not be limited by their circumstances. I want to help eliminate barriers, whether they be physical, mental, or emotional, to help these individuals thrive. I am also passionate about empowering women and girls and I believe that EFRY is an association that advocates for everyone in the justice system who are at risk of criminalization. Volunteering through EFRY has enabled me to help these individuals.
Other than Youth Court, I have also worked in Child Welfare and Family court where I have assisted clients appearing in docket court and have provided access to relevant information and community resources. I believe that the court program makes a great difference in the lives of those involved in the criminal justice system. Within Canada’s criminal justice system, vulnerable populations are overrepresented as both offenders and victims. Their vulnerability is exacerbated by the complexities of the court system. As courtworkers, it is our responsibility to help individuals obtain a fair and just treatment through these complex processes. As well, I believe that we serve as “bridges” between the justice system and those involved in the system. For instance, we help individuals better understand the nature of their charges, we provide them with resources, connect them with lawyers and court officials and help them navigate the system. Most importantly I find that even just letting clients know that we are here to support them, in practical and emotional ways, and advocate for them, makes a huge difference. Not only do we help clients, but we also help lawyers, duty counsels, and other court officials.
Once again, I believe that cutting funding to EFRY’s court program will have detrimental consequences especially to those who would otherwise benefit from our services.
Mary (Volunteer)