Tracking success - Government of Canada supports project to end violence against women and girls in York region

TORONTO, Aug. 21, 2012 /CNW/ - The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, today shared an update on the success achieved thus far in a Government of Canada supported project that addresses violence against women and girls in York Region.

"Our government is committed to protecting women, girls and other vulnerable persons from all forms of violence, and to hold offenders accountable for their acts," said Minister Ambrose. "By empowering the South Asian community in York Region to work together and raise awareness, this project will help to prevent heinous crimes, such as violence against women."

In May 2011, the Social Services Network received approval of $200,000 in Government of Canada funding for its project Building a Safe Community for Us: South Asian Girls, Teens, and Young Women Strategies for Change. This 24-month project aims to develop approaches to engaging youth in violence prevention in their communities through focus groups with South Asian girls and boys, parents, educators, individuals working in judicial institutions and health, and social services workers. The project will be completed by May 22, 2013.

"We are very pleased to have the Government of Canada's support for this project, which is helping to educate our community's youth on violence against women and girls," said Dr. Naila Butt, Executive Director of the Social Services Network. "This project is achieving amazing results and is encouraging our youth to be part of the solution by getting involved."

"It is only by working together, and enhancing our knowledge and understanding of this issue, that we will end all forms of violence against women and girls," said Minister Ambrose.

The project has held a series of focus groups that helped identify perspectives, perceptions, and challenges on violence against girls and young women in the South Asian community. These discussions have allowed youth to share their own stories about their culture and violence, raising their awareness on the various forms of abuse. Through their participation, some young people have been inspired to become future workshop trainers.

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.

SOURCE: Status of Women Canada

For media inquiries only:            
Michelle Bakos
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Public Works and Government Services
and Minister for Status of Women
819 997-5421

For all other inquiries, contact:
Nanci-Jean Waugh
Director General
Communications and Public Affairs
Status of Women Canada
613 995-7839

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