For Immediate release

August 25, 2005

MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT CONTINUES TO DELIVER IN ITS FIGHT AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Action Plan Investment Focuses On Unique Needs Of Women From Diverse Backgrounds

KINGSTON – The McGuinty government’s latest Domestic Violence Action Plan investment will mean better access to critical counselling services for hundreds of women and children who are victims of abuse, MPP John Gerretsen announced today on behalf of Minister of Community and Social Services Sandra Pupatello.

“Today’s investment is not just about providing more services for domestic violence, but improving the services that meet the distinct needs of women in the Kingston community, said Gerretsen. “These organizations serve a critical function to women and children dealing with the effects of abuse and our government is committed to ensuring that victims of domestic violence receive the support services they require to build stronger, healthier lives.”

The government is boosting its investment in community counselling programs by 10 per cent specifically to address waiting lists and gaps in service for Francophone women, rural and Aboriginal women, women with disabilities and those from diverse cultural backgrounds, as well as for children who have been exposed to violence at home. This $2.5 million investment will allow women’s agencies to strengthen their counselling support services to help their clients break the cycle of violence and rebuild their lives.

This year, Kingston Interval House will see a boost of $9,900 in 2005/06 increasing to $14,500 in 2006/07. The Kingston Community Counselling Centre will also receive $9,250 in 2005/06 and an increase to $13,500 in 2006/07. The increased funding will go to support existing domestic violence programs for Kingston area women and their children who are victims of abuse.

“We’re very pleased to have received this funding,” said Linda Murray, Executive Director of Kingston Interval House. “This funding will enable us to improve our services to young and aboriginal women at risk in the Kingston area.”

“ We are thrilled to receive additional funding, this will allow us to augment our services to rural women experiencing domestic violence,” said Liz Whelpdale program coordinator. “The expansion of services will include the ability to provide individual and group counselling to a greater number of women as well as out reach services to younger women.”

This funding builds on an existing $22 million investment in counselling programs and is earmarked for shelters, second stage housing providers, transitional housing support program providers and women’s counselling agencies.

                                               - 30 –