Province provides $42.6M to programs dealing with interpersonal violence

Organizations and programs across the province that help tackle issues like interpersonal violence can expect to see some additional funding from the province.

The Saskatchewan government is providing $42.6 million over three years to help out 34 community-based service organizations and 54 different programs that provide support to individuals and families dealing with interpersonal violence and abuse.

Premier Scott Moe said the goal is to ensure victims have the support they need, so they aren’t struggling on their own.

“This funding commitment will help our community-based organizations continue to deliver supports and services to victims of interpersonal violence and abuse, ensuring that victims don’t have to face challenges alone,” Moe said in a statement.

“This funding isn’t abstract; it makes a difference,” Justice Minister Bronwyn Eyre added.

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“Last year, we ensured that over 1,000 adults and 1,100 children had access to safe accommodation and resources to rebuild their lives. Over 900 people in communities across the province also received counselling and advocacy services, as well as support for housing, employment, and education.”

The programs receiving funding include Sexual Violence Services, Residential Transition Homes, Enhanced Residential Services, Family Violence Intervention Programs, Family Intervention Rapid Support Teams, and Victim Advocate Case Reviews.

The Ministry of Justice said the province is investing a total of $31.7 million to interpersonal violence programs and services this year. That funding will include $14.2 million per year going to community-based partners, annualized funding for second-stage shelters, and more funding for victim services and other services providing support for victims.

Melissa Coomber-Bendtsen, CEO of YWCA Regina, said the new funding will be very beneficial for groups like hers.

Melissa Coomber-Bendtsen, CEO of YWCA Regina, says the government’s investment will make a big difference to organizations that help victims. (Giancarlo Cininni/980 CJME)

“One of the important pieces about it is that it sheds light on the work that needs to happen and also brings commitment to the fact that it’s an issue in our community and that we need to continue to offer supports, safe places, and programs for women and their children,” Coomber-Bendtsen said.

“The women and children we serve have experienced incredible amounts of trauma, and that isn’t something that is worked through or healed in a short period of time.”