'Help us create the capacity': Luna Centre seeks Calgarians' support to fund new facility amid growing demand

After supporting more than 30,000 children and families since opening in 2013, Luna Child and Youth Advocacy Centre has outgrown its current home and is asking Calgarians for help in creating a new one.

The Calgary organization has launched a fundraising campaign, “More than a building. A place for healing,” to raise the remaining 45 per cent of its $7 million goal, or roughly $3.15 million.

Luna has already secured 55 per cent, or roughly $3.85 million, through donors and community partners, said Tara McCool, campaign co-chair and Luna board member.

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“That is an incredible start and it’s just so very Calgary,” she said. “It tells us that there’s real momentum behind this project, and it gives us enormous confidence about what we can accomplish together.”

The original Luna Centre was designed to serve about 1,000 children each year. It now supports nearly 5,000 annually.

Luna CEO Karen Orser said there are multiple factors behind the increase in demand, including population growth and the evolution of Luna’s programs and services as the organization has learned more about what children and families need.

“Calgary continues to grow. Our child and youth population continues to grow, and every year we see more children and families who need help,” Orser said. “We have an opportunity right now to build for the need we see today, and for the many children and families who will lead us in the future.”

With Calgary quickly approaching its two millionth resident , Orser said the need for these services will only continue to grow. She added that a new facility will also support the continued growth of their services.