“It just costs too much.”

I hear that everywhere I go: at the grocery store, at school events, at the community centre and on the soccer pitch.

Parents across Manitoba are feeling squeezed by the rising cost of everyday life, and many are wondering how much further their family budgets can stretch. Groceries cost more. Gas costs more. Kids’ activities cost more. Even the basics feel harder to afford than they did just a few years ago.

As a mother, I understand that pressure. Families are making difficult choices every single month. Parents are cutting back on extras, postponing purchases, and worrying about bills in ways they never had to before.

Safety is one of the most important concerns of families in River Park South and across Seine River. Folks want to feel safe in their neighbourhoods, safe visiting local businesses, and confident that supports are in place to help our communities thrive.

That’s why our 2026 budget continues to make important investments in public safety, community supports, and prevention initiatives that will help build a safer Manitoba for everyone.

Our government is increasing funding for justice services, policing, and community safety programs. These investments are already making a difference. Violent crime in Manitoba is down for the first time in four years, and we are continuing this work with additional funding for municipal policing, the RCMP, and First Nations policing.

I know many small business owners in River Park South have shared concerns about safety and property damage in recent years. As a small business owner myself, I understand how challenging those costs can be. That’s why I’m pleased our government is continuing the small business security rebate program, which helps businesses offset the costs of security equipment and repairs. Eligible businesses can apply for up to $2,500, helping lower costs while improving safety for staff and customers alike.

Keeping our communities safe is one of the top priorities of our NDP government and is something I know matters deeply to many families here in St. Norbert. Creating safe and welcoming neighbourhoods means ensuring folks feel supported and connected in the communities they call home. That’s why I’m proud to share that our recent 2026 budget included important investments that will help strengthen public safety across Seine River.

Since forming government in 2023, we have increased justice funding every year, and we’re starting to see results. Violent crime is down for the first time in four years, and while there’s still more work ahead, this progress is encouraging for many communities across our province. I know many residents in St. Norbert want to see thoughtful and meaningful action when it comes to public safety, and I’m proud that our government is continuing to make these investments.

Budget 2026 continues annual increases to police funding, including additional support for the RCMP and First Nations policing, along with new investments focused on addressing retail crime and getting dangerous drugs off our streets.

I’m also very excited about the new grants for neighbourhood and business associations that will support local public safety initiatives. These investments will help our communities respond to their unique needs while supporting local businesses and making neighbourhoods safer for everyone.