Sunrise House has come a long way since opening its original shelter in 2003 as a grassroots program. Operated out of a converted duplex with just 12 beds and minimal space, the shelter provided critical support for youth in crisis for over 20 years. In 2010, a lack of funding and the need for significant repairs forced a 10-month closure, but the community’s determination helped us reopen stronger than ever.
By 2015, discussions began about expanding the shelter to meet growing demands. Plans evolved to include additional beds and dedicated programming spaces, ensuring we could better serve youth in Grande Prairie.
The vision for a new facility became a reality thanks to incredible community support. Kicked off by a $1 million donation and bolstered by countless contributions from local donors, businesses, and organizations, this campaign showed the power of collective effort. While government funding accounted for less than half of the total cost, the rest was made possible by the generosity of our community.
Every contribution, big or small, brought us closer to the goal of creating a space that could provide safety, stability, and hope for youth in need.
In December 2023, we proudly opened the doors to our new youth shelter—a facility designed to transform lives. With increased capacity, expanded programming spaces, and modern amenities, this building represents the next chapter in Sunrise House’s mission to support vulnerable youth.
None of this would have been possible without the unwavering dedication of our community. Together, we’ve built a space that is more than just a shelter—it’s a home where youth can heal, grow, and thrive.