Victim resources - Homicide

The death of a loved one is difficult enough, but when a homicide occurs, the pain, anger and grief are compounded by the realization that a precious life was taken intentionally. You may experience devastating emotional feelings, as well as physical reactions and financial stressors. As homicide is a criminal act, the complexities of the criminal justice system and media attention can cause additional stress. The Victim Assistance Support Team is here to assist you through this challenging time.

Homicide and grieving: A survivor's guide

Hospice Calgary
Telephone: 403-263-4525

• Professional grief and trauma counsellors specialize in child and teen friendly techniques that build resilience and renew hope.

Kids Help Phone
24-hour crisis line: 1-800-688-6868

• 24-hour online and counseling available for those 5-20 years old.

Office of the Chief Medical Examiner
Telephone: 403-297-8123

• Information and the role of the Medical Examiner’s Office.

Victims of Crime Financial Benefits Program (Alberta Solicitor General)
Telephone: 780-427-7217 or toll-free through Service Alberta 310-0000

• Death benefit available to persons who paid the funeral costs of a victim who died as a result of a violent crime in Alberta. The application must meet the criteria for funeral costs to be reimbursed. The program is administered under the Victims of Crime Act and Regulation.
• Financial Benefits Program also has benefits for victims injured as a result of violent crime in Alberta. If you were injured as a result of a violent crime, or have psychological injuries as a result of witnessing a crime that resulted in death, complete the injury application.

Canada Pension Plan
Telephone: 1-800-277-9914

• The death benefit is a one-time payment to, or on behalf of, the estate of a deceased Canada Pension Plan contributor.
• The survivor's pension is a monthly pension paid to the surviving spouse or common-law partner of a deceased contributor.
• The children's benefit is a monthly benefit for dependent children of a deceased contributor.
• You must complete an application form.

Alberta Family and Social Services
Telephone: 310-0000 toll-free in Alberta

• In the province of Alberta, no one is ever denied the dignity of a funeral. If a family is unable to pay, the government department of Alberta Family and Social Services can provide assistance for basic funeral services, a casket, and cemetery or cremation fees.

Child Witness Court Preparation Court Program
Telephone: 403-289-8385

• Providing tools and resources to help children and teens prepare for their day in court.

Calgary Crown Prosecutor’s Office - Public Assistance Unit
Telephone: 403-297-3912 / 403-297-3913

• Providing information on court proceedings to victims and witnesses during the Criminal Justice process. We liaise between the witnesses and the crown prosecutors as they are unable to communicate directly.

National Parole Board - Prairies Regional Office
Victims information line: 1-888-616-5277
Telephone: 1-306-975-4228
Fax: 1-306-975-5892

• By law, victims of crime have a right to certain information about the person who harmed them while that person is under the jurisdiction of the Parole Board of Canada (PBC).
• Information is not provided automatically to victims. Victims wishing to receive information about the person who harmed them, must register with the PBC or the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC). To register, go to the website.