Government of Canada taking action to address violence against women in high-risk neighbourhoods

OTTAWA, Nov. 26, 2012 /CNW/ - The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, today called on Canadians to join the worldwide 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence and reaffirmed the Government's commitment to addressing gender-based violence in high-risk neighbourhoods.

"Our Government recognizes that violence against women and girls must be addressed wherever it occurs, including in high-risk neighbourhooods," said Minister Ambrose. "That is why our Government recently issued a Call for Proposals to address the needs of communities where the risk of violence can be higher."

This higher risk can occur in neighbourhoods where there may be a greater degree of social isolation, and where victims may not have access to the same kinds of support as women living in other areas. These projects will develop and implement community strategies tailored to these neighbourhoods.

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