New Investment Means Better Services for Women From Diverse Backgrounds

LONDON – The McGuinty government’s latest Domestic Violence Action Plan investment will mean better access to critical counselling services for hundreds of women and children who are victims of abuse, Minister of Community and Social Services Sandra Pupatello announced today.

"The effects of abuse are devastating and far-reaching. Counselling services are critical to assisting women and their children to deal with the effects of abuse and regain control over their lives," said Pupatello. "With this investment, we’re not just providing more services, but services that meet the distinct needs of women from a broad range of backgrounds, because domestic violence speaks many languages, has many colours and lives in many different communities."

The government is boosting its investment in community counselling programs by 10 per cent specifically to address waiting lists and gaps in service for francophone women, rural and aboriginal women, women with disabilities and those from diverse cultural backgrounds, as well as for children who have been exposed to violence at home.

This $2.5 million investment will allow women’s agencies to strengthen their counselling support services to help their clients break the cycle of violence and rebuild their lives. Funding for this initiative is ongoing and is provided through the Victims’ Justice Fund.

"Domestic violence will not be tolerated in Ontario," said Attorney General Michael Bryant. "This investment from the Victims’ Justice Fund strengthens our commitment to help women and children live free from fear and help them rebuild their lives."

This year in southwestern Ontario, 11 agencies will receive a total of $170,840, increasing to $250,000 in 2006.

"With both our shelters full this summer, we are absolutely appreciative of the government's efforts to continue to get additional resources out to us because without this we certainly wouldn't be able to accomplish what we need to," said Kate Wiggins, Executive Director, Women’s Community House.

This funding builds on an existing $22 million investment in counselling programs and is earmarked for shelters, second stage housing providers, transitional housing support program providers and women’s counselling agencies.

"Helping women and children overcome the harmful effects of abuse is a key part of our Domestic Violence Action Plan," said Pupatello. "It’s a plan that’s helping us build stronger, safer communities for us all."

The Domestic Violence Action Plan is a balanced approach that strengthens the justice system, enhances community supports, and uses early intervention, prevention and public education strategies to help reduce domestic violence.