Mark Cherrington
@markcherrington.bsky.social
Mark@coalition4jhr.org 780-850-6254 text/call. Helping vulnerable persons for 30 years. Human Rights Advocate. No government funding. Solely funded by YOUR donations. #YEG
Donate here: https://www.coalition4jhr.org/
Donate here: https://www.coalition4jhr.org/
Pinned
Please make a tax-deductible donation to support my work with the Coalition for Justice and Human Rights. In 2023, we helped over 1,100 vulnerable people across Alberta.
Select “Outreach and Support” in the drop-down. Your support keeps this work going.
Select “Outreach and Support” in the drop-down. Your support keeps this work going.
Why People Leave Custody Less Stable Than When They Entered: How Inaction During Incarceration Affects ID, Housing, and Treatment
markcherrington.substack.com/p/why-people...
markcherrington.substack.com/p/why-people...
January 17, 2026 at 1:16 AM
Why People Leave Custody Less Stable Than When They Entered: How Inaction During Incarceration Affects ID, Housing, and Treatment
markcherrington.substack.com/p/why-people...
markcherrington.substack.com/p/why-people...
am in family court supporting a young father. In this particular case I feel Children Services acted intrusively and could have taken a different approach. The fight today is to entrenched visits for dad with his children, one of whom is disabled.
January 16, 2026 at 5:06 PM
am in family court supporting a young father. In this particular case I feel Children Services acted intrusively and could have taken a different approach. The fight today is to entrenched visits for dad with his children, one of whom is disabled.
Mom has her children apprehended. I get that. Children must be safe!!!. After the fact, parents still have a vital role. Small child has his birthday. Same day as scheduled visit with mom---Children Services cancels visit as so foster parent can hold Bday party. Of course mom isnt invited #abpoli
January 15, 2026 at 10:08 PM
Mom has her children apprehended. I get that. Children must be safe!!!. After the fact, parents still have a vital role. Small child has his birthday. Same day as scheduled visit with mom---Children Services cancels visit as so foster parent can hold Bday party. Of course mom isnt invited #abpoli
At the Thorpe Centre today near Lloydminster. Dropping off a client who is beginning 42 days of treatment. A nice facility, lots of staff. Again, my issue is that this somewhat publicly funded treatment centre refuses to take clients from custody.
January 14, 2026 at 8:48 PM
At the Thorpe Centre today near Lloydminster. Dropping off a client who is beginning 42 days of treatment. A nice facility, lots of staff. Again, my issue is that this somewhat publicly funded treatment centre refuses to take clients from custody.
1/ One of the biggest frustrations I see is what happens when a person is incarcerated, whether on remand or serving a provincial sentence. There is little meaningful effort to maintain stability or prepare someone for release. Every sentence is finite, yet release is an afterthought. #abpoli
January 13, 2026 at 8:46 PM
1/ One of the biggest frustrations I see is what happens when a person is incarcerated, whether on remand or serving a provincial sentence. There is little meaningful effort to maintain stability or prepare someone for release. Every sentence is finite, yet release is an afterthought. #abpoli
1/ It’s outrageous to hear @JasonNixonAB & the UCP brag that Alberta has the “highest” disability support spending, when real recipients still struggle to cover basics and face cuts under new rules.
Q&A: Nixon vows no budget cuts to Alberta disability benefits, defends level of support
Question and answer with Assisted Living and Social Services Minister Jason Nixon on changes to Alberta's disability supports
edmontonjournal.com
January 12, 2026 at 8:56 PM
1/ It’s outrageous to hear @JasonNixonAB & the UCP brag that Alberta has the “highest” disability support spending, when real recipients still struggle to cover basics and face cuts under new rules.
Assisting a woman who was placed in housing. She has significant barriers and challenges. She ended up in a conflict with her landlord, who changed the locks. In most cases, this is not allowed. This is one of my battles today.
January 12, 2026 at 7:30 PM
Assisting a woman who was placed in housing. She has significant barriers and challenges. She ended up in a conflict with her landlord, who changed the locks. In most cases, this is not allowed. This is one of my battles today.
Have to say disappointed with Bonnyville Treatment Centre. Clients complain of significant staff changeover, unprofessionalism and inconsistent programming. As well--a lack luster treatment schedule. But it is a gorgeous location. I was there today p/up clients.
January 8, 2026 at 9:29 PM
Have to say disappointed with Bonnyville Treatment Centre. Clients complain of significant staff changeover, unprofessionalism and inconsistent programming. As well--a lack luster treatment schedule. But it is a gorgeous location. I was there today p/up clients.
Many people support shutting down supervised consumption sites, but the evidence is clear: harm-reduction saves lives. Ignoring science and public health expertise puts people at risk and costs lives.
edmontonjournal.com/news/local-n...
edmontonjournal.com/news/local-n...
Two Alberta supervised consumption sites shut down in 2025 with plans to close Calgary's in the new year
As Alberta shuts down supervised consumption sites across the province, physicians are concerned about patients' access to treatment.
edmontonjournal.com
January 8, 2026 at 1:43 AM
Many people support shutting down supervised consumption sites, but the evidence is clear: harm-reduction saves lives. Ignoring science and public health expertise puts people at risk and costs lives.
edmontonjournal.com/news/local-n...
edmontonjournal.com/news/local-n...
This is horrific in my opinion. Jason Nixon and Danielle Smith are hell-bent on making lives more miserable and will no doubt use this panel to cut, cut, cut. I hope people remember this when it comes to voting at the next provincial election #abpoli edmontonjournal.com/news/local-n...
Why some Alberta AISH recipients fear incoming medical review panels
Many disabled Albertans are waiting for details of the Alberta UCP government's plan to reform its flagship AISH income assistance program.
edmontonjournal.com
January 7, 2026 at 4:11 PM
This is horrific in my opinion. Jason Nixon and Danielle Smith are hell-bent on making lives more miserable and will no doubt use this panel to cut, cut, cut. I hope people remember this when it comes to voting at the next provincial election #abpoli edmontonjournal.com/news/local-n...
A great new resource in #yeg. New Beginnings provides beds to persons waiting to enter treatment & those just leaving treatment. Many times, people cannot attend treatment due to unstable residences. The same goes after treatment. This new program fills a critical gap. www.newbeginningsab.ca
New Beginnings Alberta – Métis-Led Addiction Recovery Support
Safe, short-term residential care in Alberta for those preparing for or transitioning out of addiction treatment. Grounded in culture & community.
www.newbeginningsab.ca
January 7, 2026 at 4:01 PM
A great new resource in #yeg. New Beginnings provides beds to persons waiting to enter treatment & those just leaving treatment. Many times, people cannot attend treatment due to unstable residences. The same goes after treatment. This new program fills a critical gap. www.newbeginningsab.ca
Young mom of three children working with CFS to get her children back. One of the biggest concerns is Mom's mental health. Thus, when she texts me for help to pay for her medication, that is a no-brainer. Another example of your donations making a real difference and helping vulnerable persons.
January 6, 2026 at 8:10 PM
Young mom of three children working with CFS to get her children back. One of the biggest concerns is Mom's mental health. Thus, when she texts me for help to pay for her medication, that is a no-brainer. Another example of your donations making a real difference and helping vulnerable persons.
The morning begins early as I pick up a man who has significant support and means. Taking him to treatment from custody. The program he is attending is a year long.
January 6, 2026 at 4:12 PM
The morning begins early as I pick up a man who has significant support and means. Taking him to treatment from custody. The program he is attending is a year long.
Picked up and took a young mom of three small children to court. We are addressing her harmful substance use. She herself spent her whole childhood in care, as did her mother. Her grandmother was in residential care, taken from her First Nations in the 50's.
January 5, 2026 at 6:41 PM
Picked up and took a young mom of three small children to court. We are addressing her harmful substance use. She herself spent her whole childhood in care, as did her mother. Her grandmother was in residential care, taken from her First Nations in the 50's.
Young family, father struggling with mental health, can't hold a job. Mother working two part-time jobs at minimum wage can't make it work. I gave mom funds for bus fare and clothing for the two small children(Twins who are growing fast). Thank you to those who support the Coalition.
January 4, 2026 at 7:42 PM
Young family, father struggling with mental health, can't hold a job. Mother working two part-time jobs at minimum wage can't make it work. I gave mom funds for bus fare and clothing for the two small children(Twins who are growing fast). Thank you to those who support the Coalition.
1/There are huge international stories, and some very significant local stories today. My focus, however, is on a homeless lady who needs a ride to court out of town next week. With no means, this stressor has consumed her and affected her mental health. .
January 3, 2026 at 4:43 PM
1/There are huge international stories, and some very significant local stories today. My focus, however, is on a homeless lady who needs a ride to court out of town next week. With no means, this stressor has consumed her and affected her mental health. .
Next week I am booked up with court appearances for young moms and dads, helping people attend medical appointments, and visiting institutions and treatment centres. I am always happy to help out in whatever capacity is needed. Thank you all for your continued support! #HappyNewYear2026
January 2, 2026 at 3:59 PM
Next week I am booked up with court appearances for young moms and dads, helping people attend medical appointments, and visiting institutions and treatment centres. I am always happy to help out in whatever capacity is needed. Thank you all for your continued support! #HappyNewYear2026
Very busy today with several crises. Child custody issues, overdoses, mental health, no food etc. Out and about most of today.
December 31, 2025 at 11:14 PM
Very busy today with several crises. Child custody issues, overdoses, mental health, no food etc. Out and about most of today.
Off topic: I am always amazed by space, and the two trillion galaxies in the "known universe". And for those who think there is no intelligent life out there, who quote the Fermi Paradox, well, you need to watch this short clip. www.youtube.com/shorts/oeh3J...
🌌 Neil deGrasse Tyson Is Shocked by How Little of Our Galaxy We’ve Explored
YouTube video by Cognitio Nova
www.youtube.com
December 30, 2025 at 12:57 AM
Off topic: I am always amazed by space, and the two trillion galaxies in the "known universe". And for those who think there is no intelligent life out there, who quote the Fermi Paradox, well, you need to watch this short clip. www.youtube.com/shorts/oeh3J...
1/ Calls come in. Utilities cut off. Needs $180. Mom has a baby. She's afraid to call Emergency Social Services. She finds them Rude, always hang up on her, and patronizing, as if she hasn't been a mom worthy of any help. #abpoli
December 29, 2025 at 9:55 PM
1/ Calls come in. Utilities cut off. Needs $180. Mom has a baby. She's afraid to call Emergency Social Services. She finds them Rude, always hang up on her, and patronizing, as if she hasn't been a mom worthy of any help. #abpoli
Helping a man who had his leg amputated from diabetes and the cold, go to the pharmacy and then sit with him until his shelter opens the doors for the night.
December 27, 2025 at 1:54 AM
Helping a man who had his leg amputated from diabetes and the cold, go to the pharmacy and then sit with him until his shelter opens the doors for the night.
Up to a year ago, when a vulnerable person called Emergency Social Services and was denied support for any reason, it was possible to immediately appeal that decision to a supervisor. That is no longer an option.
December 26, 2025 at 9:59 PM
Up to a year ago, when a vulnerable person called Emergency Social Services and was denied support for any reason, it was possible to immediately appeal that decision to a supervisor. That is no longer an option.
1/ Working with a father whose child has been apprehended by children services at the hospital. He was with his biological mother during pregnancy and at birth. He states CFS has ignored his request for access and court dates. He has volunteered for a paternity test.
December 22, 2025 at 7:10 PM
1/ Working with a father whose child has been apprehended by children services at the hospital. He was with his biological mother during pregnancy and at birth. He states CFS has ignored his request for access and court dates. He has volunteered for a paternity test.
If you want to make a real difference, donate directly to your local Food Bank.
When you buy food at a grocery store to place in a donation bin, you’re paying full retail prices. Food Banks don't.
When you buy food at a grocery store to place in a donation bin, you’re paying full retail prices. Food Banks don't.
December 22, 2025 at 1:05 AM
If you want to make a real difference, donate directly to your local Food Bank.
When you buy food at a grocery store to place in a donation bin, you’re paying full retail prices. Food Banks don't.
When you buy food at a grocery store to place in a donation bin, you’re paying full retail prices. Food Banks don't.