The Ontario government is investing $227,607 over three years to support Victim Services of Leeds and Grenville’s new initiative aimed at addressing intimate partner and gender-based violence in rural communities. The funding, announced by MPP Steve Clark and Associate Minister Charmaine Williams, will help launch the Intimate Partner Violence/Gender-Based Violence Rural Community Hub.
The initiative, designed to provide education, prevention, and early intervention, will operate through a mobile community hub model. Victim Services will partner with local police and Family and Children Services to offer direct support to individuals and families affected by violence. This approach addresses barriers in rural areas, such as limited access to transportation, by delivering services directly to those in need.
“By supporting this initiative, we’re ensuring survivors have the resources and support they need to rebuild their lives,” said MPP Clark. Minister Williams added that the government’s goal is to enhance community-based services and improve economic security for survivors.
This project is part of Ontario’s broader efforts to end gender-based violence and support victims across the province.
(By: Tim Baltz)