Government of Canada Supports Women's Safety on Vancouver Island

VANCOUVER ISLAND, Jan. 13, 2012 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, the Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development and Member of Parliament for Vancouver Island North, today announced Government of Canada support for a project that addresses the priority of ending violence against women and girls.

"Our Government recognizes that when all women can live safer and more secure lives, our entire society is stronger as a result," said Minister Ambrose. "This project will help ensure that women in rural areas who are vulnerable to violence and abuse will have increased access to community resources."

The Vancouver Island North Women's Resource Society is receiving $203,647 from Status of Women Canada for its project entitled Walking With Our Sisters, to help end violence against women and girls in their communities.

"Since 1983, the Vancouver Island North Women's Resource Society has provided critical support to women who have experienced gender-based violence," said Mr. Duncan. "By empowering women with skills that can help them cope, this project will have a lasting impact here."

"The Walking with our Sisters initiative will be a tremendous help to women in our community, especially when they need to access social, legal, and medical services," said Hilary Schweitzer-McEwen, Chairwoman of the Vancouver Island North Women's Resource Society.

Since 2007, Status of Women Canada has approved more than $39 million in projects designed to help end violence against women and girls across the country. 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.

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For media inquiries only:		For all other inquiries, contact:
Michelle Bakos Director of Communications Office of the Minister of Public Works and      Government Services and Minister for Status of Women 819 997-5421		Nanci-Jean Waugh Director General, Communications and      Public Affairs Status of Women Canada 613 995-7839