Help Children Heal from Domestic Violence and Trauma
Years ago, a woman came to Radiance with a story we’ve heard before.
As a child, she had stayed at Radiance with her mother while they escaped domestic violence. Radiance had helped them find safety through emergency shelter and support services for women and children fleeing abuse. But now, as an adult, the fear and trauma from those early years were still affecting her life.
Her story reminded us of something important: when children experience or witness family violence, the impact does not simply disappear once they are safe. Without the right support, childhood trauma can follow them into adulthood and even affect future generations.
That moment helped shape a new vision for healing at Radiance. Thanks to the generosity of donors and community supporters who believed children deserved more than safety alone, the Radiance Children’s Centre became a reality.
The Children’s Centre was created to help children heal from the effects of domestic violence, family violence, and trauma. It is a safe, caring, trauma-informed space where children can begin to feel secure again. Through therapeutic play, connection, routine, and specialized support, children learn to trust, express their emotions, build resilience, and develop healthy coping skills.
As a leading social service organization dedicated to supporting families impacted by domestic violence in Calgary and surrounding areas, Radiance understands that early intervention is critical. Violence and trauma can affect a child’s mental health, relationships, education, and future well-being. But with compassionate care and trauma-informed support, that future can change.
Breaking the cycle of violence takes a community. The generosity of our donors supports healing, safety, counselling, child development, and the opportunity for children to grow up free from the lasting effects of abuse. Together, we can help children heal from trauma, support families escaping violence, and break the cycle of domestic abuse for future generations.
Learn more about how you can support Radiance.