News

Prime Minister Trudeau Announces Support for Sexual Assault Centres and Vulnerable Canadians

Published: 29 March 2020

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the Canadian government has been working to support vulnerable populations. Certain communities and individuals face additional risks and harm, particularly as services and resources are closed, and as they are forced to stay home. Today, Prime Minister Trudeau announced that the government will provide additional support to women and children at risk of violence. The government will provide up to $50 million to women’s shelters and sexual assault centres, including facilities in Indigenous communities. The government will also give $7.5 million in funding to Kids Help Phone (a 24/7 confidential online, telephone, and text counselling service) to provide young people with the mental health support they need during this difficult time.

Said Prime Minister Trudeau: “While the COVID-19 pandemic affects all Canadians, some people and communities are more at risk to its impacts. That is why it is important to keep connected and make sure that everyone feels safe and supported in this uncertain time. Today’s announcement is about helping our most vulnerable Canadians and ensuring our community organizations have what they need to deliver critical services to those most at risk."

The news release is available here.

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