Government of Canada marks 16 days of activism against gender violence in Ontario

OTTAWA, Dec. 3, 2012 /CNW/ - The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, today called on all Canadians to join the worldwide 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence, while highlighting government actions to address violence against women and girls in Ontario.

"Our Government recognizes the need for Canadians to come together and take action to prevent violence against women and girls," said Minister Ambrose. "That is why the Government of Canada is proud to support projects in Ontario and across Canada that help communities address this serious issue."

Minister Ambrose highlighted an ongoing project with the Women's Support Network of York Region. It is receiving $213,574 for a 24-month project to promote community safety by addressing the needs of women and girls at risk of sexual exploitation and human trafficking. The project's focus is on the development of inter-agency protocols, guidelines and best practices to ensure appropriate responses by service providers to intra-regional trafficking of girls and women.

"We are pleased to have the Government of Canada's support for this important project to help improve collaboration at the community level," said Jacqueline Benn-John, Acting Executive Director of Women's Support Network of York Region. "The safety of many young women at risk in the York Region will be enhanced by this project."

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence commence on November 25, with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and conclude on December 10 with International Human Rights Day. The campaign also observes significant dates such as December 6, Canada's National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women.

The Government of Canada is committed to supporting projects that yield concrete results for women and girls in Canada while strengthening families, communities and the country. Through Status of Women Canada, the government's support for community-based projects has nearly doubled since 2006-2007, from $10.8 million to close to $19 million, its highest level ever. Since 2007, more than $54 million in funding has been approved for projects that seek to address violence against women and girls.

SOURCE: Status of Women Canada