New Funding Will Make Shelters And Second Stage Housing Supportive, Safe Places of Refuge

BRAMPTON — The McGuinty government is continuing to strengthen front-line agencies serving women and children fleeing domestic violence, Minister of Community and Social Services and Minister Responsible for Women’s Issues, Sandra Pupatello, announced today.

“The province is investing $2 million in new funding to cover operational costs at women’s shelters and boost counselling services delivered by second stage housing providers,” said Pupatello, speaking at Brampton’s Honeychurch Family Life Resource Centre. “It’s about providing better supports for women and children as they re-establish their lives, free of violence and building stronger, safer communities for us all.”

The new money will also be used for one-time repair and maintenance expenses at women’s shelters and second stage housing providers to help keep these facilities in good repair for the women and children who depend on them in a time of crisis.

In March 2005, the government helped 98 women’s agencies make important investments in safety, accessibility and security. Today’s announcement is the next step to building stronger community services across Ontario.

“At Honeychurch, every bed is full almost every night. There are always things that need to be fixed and programs that could use a boost,” said Marilyn Field, Executive Director. “We are helping women to reclaim their lives and feel safe once again and we are pleased to have the province’s support for that.”

The new funding builds on the government’s comprehensive Domestic Violence Action Plan, bringing its total commitments to $68 million. The plan includes better community supports to protect victims; a focus on public education, early intervention and prevention; a stronger justice system response and offers better access to support services for francophone, aboriginal and diverse populations.

“Women and children should never have to live with the fear of violence in their homes,” said Pupatello. “This is part of our plan to build stronger, safer communities by giving women a place of refuge when home stops being that place.”