It's been less than a month since Airdrie P.O.W.E.R. received its non-profit status, but already the local group has seen huge amounts of support for building a women's shelter in Airdrie.

With domestic violence continuing to rise within the community, Airdrie P.O.W.E.R. (Protecting Our Women with Emergency Resources) and Airdrie MLA Angela Pitt are taking a stand.

The Wildrose MLA and the Shadow Status of Women Minister said domestic violence is growing within the city as 974 cases were reported to the RCMP in 2015.

Of the 974 reported cases of domestic violence, the RCMP say 799 were confirmed to have met the definition of a domestic crime in Alberta.

"Domestic violence prevention is a cause that is very important to me, and to our community as a whole," said Pitt. "We must ensure that Airdrians are educated on warning signs for domestic violence, that we have proper facilities in place including women's shelters, and, finally, that we reduce the stigma tied to discussing domestic violence."

Pitt said that she's proud of local groups like Airdrie P.O.W.E.R. who are looking to raise money for a women's shelter within the city.

"Women faced with domestic violence need options, as unfortunately it persists in our communities. By supporting Airdrie P.O.W.E.R., we can ensure that there is a safe space for women fleeing domestic violence in our community."

"It gives them a safe place to collect their thoughts, get counseling, get financial help, get help in the court system," said Crystal Boys, President of Airdrie P.O.W.E.R. "It gives them resources that they wouldn't normally have at home and it gives them that support system."

Boys said the RCMP receive around 3 calls a day about domestic violence but that obviously doesn't include those that aren't phoning the RCMP or feel unsafe doing so.

"It's quite frightening on what the statistics probably really are - more than double than what we see on paper."

With the concern of domestic violence Boys said it's imperative that Airdrie has a women's shelter, and that most of the city agrees.

After receiving their non-profit status, Airdrie P.O.W.E.R. has seen an outpouring of support.

"It's been quite exciting and overwhelming at the same time that the moment that we got our status, the community just stepped up and said, 'hey how can we help,' and, 'let's get this done.' It's been quite exciting."

As a non-profit the local group can accept donations and officially raise money, as they are now in search of land, a house, or a building where they can setup the shelter.

In the meantime, Boys said the group is planning some upcoming fundraisers while they will be attending the Airdrie Women's Show April 2nd and 3rd at the Town and Country Centre.

All proceeds from the event's silent auction will also be going to the non-profit group.

More on Airdrie P.O.W.E.R. here.

Bradley Jones - airdrienews@goldenwestradio.com