Manitoba providing money for memorial to honour Carman homicide victims
The provincial government is providing funding to the Town of Carman to honour the five people who were killed in February, and to help those who helped the town heal.
Amanda Clearwater, her three kids, Bethany, Jayven and Isabella, and her niece Myah-Lee Gratton, were killed in mid-February, and Clearwater's common-law partner Ryan Manoakeesick has been charged with five counts of first-degree murder. Those charges haven't been tested in court.
On Wednesday, the Manitoba government announced it will provide $20,000 to help the community build a memorial in honour of the victims, and another $300,000 will go to Carman Wellness Connections.
The volunteer-run organization provides mental health supports, and helps, "find solutions that minimize the impact of limited income."
"The front-line staff of Carman Wellness Connections reacted swiftly and compassionately to bring healing to the community by providing resources and emotional health support. Our government is proud to support the important work they do," said Premier Wab Kinew in a news release.
Nancy Clearwater, Amanda's mother, said she is still in shock about the whole situation, but appreciates the government's funding.
"It will help memorialize my (grandchildren) and my daughter, and hopefully bring awareness to domestic violence," she said a news conference Wednesday.
Karen Tjaden, a board member for the organization, said the funding provides stability for them to continue their work.
"With this funding, we can enhance our programs, expand our reach and make a lasting difference in the community," said Tjaden in a news release.
Carman Mayor Brent Owen said the financial support would help the community for many years.
"Almost three months later, I know many are still feeling the impacts of it during this time. Many of us have found hope in watching our community come together and support each other," said Owen.
The Clearwater family will help design the memorial, with the hopes it will be put in a community park. There is no timeline for when it will be built, but Owen indicated the town will likely contribute more funding to the project as well.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
B.C. serial killer Robert Pickton dead following prison attack
Convicted B.C. serial killer Robert Pickton, who preyed on women he lured from Vancouver's Downtown Eastside to his rural pig farm, has died.
'We will go with the majority': Liberals slammed by opposition over proposal to delay next election
The federal Liberal government learned Friday it might have to retreat on a proposal within its electoral reform legislation to delay the next vote by one week, after all opposition parties came out to say they can't support it.
Ex-husband charged with murder in death of Lumby, B.C., woman
The ex-husband of Tatjana Stefanski – the woman whose disappearance and death set the small town of Lumby, B.C., on edge last month – has been charged with her murder.
Edmonton Oilers looking for a road win in decisive Game 5 against Dallas Stars
The Florida Panthers are a victory away from securing a berth in the Stanley Cup final and the Edmonton Oilers are looking for a road win in a pivotal Game 5 at Dallas.
Baby dead after being delivered via emergency C-section to woman who was in police custody
A newborn is dead after being delivered via emergency C-section to a woman in police custody.
Jennifer Lopez cancels summer tour: 'I am completely heartsick and devastated'
Jennifer Lopez has cancelled her 2024 North American tour, representatives for Live Nation confirmed to The Associated Press.
This Calgary home has a giant tree in the middle, and it's for sale
There's a luxury 'tree home' for sale in Calgary.
DND moving 1,000 employees out of Ottawa office building due to safety concerns
The Department of National Defence is moving approximately 1,000 employees out of an office building in Ottawa's Lowertown neighbourhood, citing safety concerns for its employees.
Man convicted of killing Toronto cop in 1980 granted day parole
A man convicted of murdering a Toronto police officer more than four decades ago has been granted day parole for six months.