Victim resources - Traffic fatalities
The death of a family member or someone close to you, as the result of a motor vehicle accident, may be one of the most painful events of your life. You may experience devastating emotional feelings, as well as physical reactions and financial stress. If the crash is the fault of another person, the pain, anger and grief can be compounded. If charges are laid, 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.
Information and advice for bereaved families and friends following a fatal collision in Alberta.
Counselling resources for adults
Alberta Health Services - Grief Support Program
Telephone: 403-943-3533
- The Grief Support Program provides individual and group grief counseling.
The Compassionate Friends of Canada, Inc
Telephone: 1-866-823-0141
- Peer support for those experiencing the death of a child.
Distress Centre
24-hour line: 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)
- Crisis and support line for those who have lost someone to suicide or those having suicidal thoughts
Distress Center
24-hour crisis line: 403-266-HELP (4357)
- 24-hour Information and support
- Access to free counseling services for individuals, groups and families
ConnecTeen
24-hour crisis line: 1-403-264-8336 (TEEN)
- 24-hour Information and support for teens
- Peer support 5 - 10 p.m. daily, online or over the phone
Calgary Counselling Centre
Telephone: 403-691-5991 (business hours)
- Long term counseling for individuals, families or couples
Wood's Homes - Eastside Community Mental Health Services
Telephone: 403-299-9699 (8 a.m. - 11 p.m. 7 days a week)
Text: 587-315-5000 (9 a.m. - 10 p.m. 7 days a week)
Address: 255, 495 36 St. N.E., Northgate Mall
- No fee - immediate walk-in counseling for youth, individuals and families.
- Walk-In: Tuesdays 11a.m. - 7p.m., Saturdays 11a.m. - 5p.m.
Counselling resources for children and youth
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
Resources for investigations
Office of the Chief Medical Examiner
Telephone: 403-297-8123
- Information and the role of the Medical Examiner’s Office
Financial resources
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.
Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Program (MVAC)
- All drivers in Alberta are required to have insurance in case they cause an accident. The Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Program protects victims by ensuring they have recourse to claim against uninsured motorists for injuries, death or property damage.