Funding rises for Amelia Rising

A women's shelter in North Bay has received its first funding increase in 12 years.

The announcement was made Thursday by Nipissing MPP Monique Smith.

Further details are included in the following news release issued by Smith:

NORTH BAY – Women who are victims of sexual assault will have better access to the support they need in the North Bay area, thanks to a $18,159.50 increase in funding to the Amelia Rising Sexual Assault Centre, Nipissing MPP Monique Smith announced today on behalf of Sandra Pupatello, Minister Responsible for Women’s Issues.

“Sexual violence can devastate the lives of those it touches. Sexual assault against women is a serious crime and victims have a right to receive timely and sensitive treatment and support in their communities,” said Smith.

The McGuinty government is investing $1.9 million to provide an eight per cent increase in annual funding to 36 centres across the province, as well as substantial additional funding to achieve parity for Francophone centres, and address gaps in French-language services, particularly in the north. This is the first increase in annual core funding to sexual assault centres in 12 years and brings the government’s total funding to $12.5 million annually.

“Sexual assault has no place in our homes or our communities. This additional funding will give women victims of sexual assault better access to programs and services across the province and right here in Nipissing,” Smith said.

Research shows that more than one-third of women in Canada have experienced what is legally recognized to be sexual assault, and that young women under 25 are at highest risk. It also shows that 80 per cent of sexual assaults occur in the home.

Sexual assault is often associated with domestic violence, and this additional funding to sexual assault centres complements the government’s strategy to more effectively address domestic violence issues.

“We are delighted with this announcement today,” said Dr. Donna-lee Iffla, Executive Director of Amelia Rising Sexual Assault Centre of Nipissing, “because it means that we can acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our staff, and we can strengthen our prevention projects, especially in rural and remote communities. It means a lot to us to receive this recognition for our work.”

Today’s announcement brings the total provincial investment in the Amelia Rising Sexual Assault Centre to $240,975.50 annually.