Investments are on the way for community-based sexual violence services.
The provincial government announced Wednesday that it is investing $1 million across five communities across New Brunswick.
Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Tammy Scott-Wallace, who is also the minister responsible for women’s equality, said in a news release that sexual violence has “a devastating impact” on victims, their loved ones and the community around them.
“As a community, we have a responsibility to dispel myths, challenge stereotypes and create a respectful environment for everyone to thrive in safety,” said Scott-Wallace in the news release.
Agencies in Fredericton, Moncton, the Acadian Peninsula, Edmundston and Saint John will each receive $200,000, which will help deliver coordination and counselling services.
The agencies receiving provincial funding are:
- Sexual Violence New Brunswick in Fredericton
- Southeast Sexual Assault Centre in Moncton
- Services à la famille de la Péninsule and Accueil Sainte-Famille on the Acadian Peninsula
- L’Éclipse in Edmundston
- Family Plus in Saint John
According to Statistics Canada, 610 sexual assault cases were reported to New Brunswick police in 2020.
The province believes this number is likely higher, as many cases of sexual violence go unreported.
“Joining communities with the government ignites a collective voice that can speak loudly against the harm of sexual violence,” said Scott-Wallace in the news release.
“We have the collective power to prevent sexual violence and support survivors. Let’s use it.”