GOVERNMENT OF CANADA SUPPORTS WOMEN'S COMMUNITY SAFETY PROJECT IN WINNIPEG

WINNIPEG, Sept. 8 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, Ms. Joy Smith, Member of Parliament (Kildonan-St. Paul), today announced Government of Canada support for a project that addresses violence against women by improving the safety of intellectually disabled women in several communities across Manitoba.

"As Minister for Status of Women, I am proud that our government is committed to addressing the pervasive issue of violence against women by supporting community-based projects," said Minister Ambrose. "Through the Women's Program at Status of Women Canada, our government's support for projects like Women in Harm's Way has nearly doubled since 2006. Our government believes that when Canadian women are economically secure, physically safe and helping to lead our nation, our country thrives."

Ms. Smith announced that the Association for Community Living - Winnipeg Inc. is receiving $51,155 through the Women's Community Fund of the Women's Program, Status of Women Canada, for its project, entitled Women in Harm's Way - Addressing the Silent Abuse - Phase 2.

To qualify for funding under the Women's Program, projects must work to promote equality and the full participation of women in the economic, social and democratic life of Canada.

"All victims of violence against women face challenges in finding safety from abuse. Women with intellectual disabilities must confront additional barriers to accessing the help and support they need to attain safety and to remain safe," said Ms. Smith. "This is a much-needed project, addressing the priority issue of violence against women by specifically addressing safety and security for intellectually disabled women in many communities around the province of Manitoba."

"Through this 18-month project, we will create tools and train women to facilitate retreats on violence issues," said Ms. Marsha Dozar, Project Coordinator, Association for Community Living - Winnipeg Inc. "Eventually, we will reach as many as 200 women with intellectual disabilities, helping them to increase their skills and, most important, their level of safety."

The Government of Canada is committed to supporting worthwhile projects like these because they yield concrete results for women and girls in Canada, while strengthening our families, our communities and our country.

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For further information:

Rebecca Thompson                                                                                                              Nanci-Jean Waugh
Director of Communications                                                                                                   Director General, Communications and
Office of the Minister of Public Works and                                                                                Strategic Planning
 Government Services and                                                                                                     Status of Women Canada
 Minister for Status of Women                                                                                                613-995-7839
613-799-1609