NEWS RELEASE
DOUG DOWNEY, MPP BARRIE-SPRINGWATER-ORO-MEDONTE
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Ontario is taking emergency action to address the recent spike in domestic violence reported by victims services organizations during the COVID-19 crisis.
The government of Ontario is providing an emergency payment of more that $2.7 million to support services for victims of domestic violence and other violent crimes in response to the evolving public health crisis and challenges victim service providers are facing.
Barrie and Area Victim Crisis Assistance and Referral Service will receive $38,125 and North Simcoe Victim Crisis Services will receive $25,750 as part of this one-time emergency payment, in addition to its annual funding allocation from the Ministry of the Attorney General.
“Staying home is unfortunately not always the safest option in certain households, and sadly a recent increase in domestic violence has been reported to front-line victims service organizations,” said Doug Downey, MPP for Barrie - Springwater - Oro-Medonte and Attorney General of Ontario.
“This emergency payment will ensure victims of crime, particularly those who are experiencing domestic violence, get the help they need to stay safe and healthy during this crisis,” added Attorney General Downey.
This additional, one-time emergency payment will help more than 50 community agencies across Ontario, including victim crisis assistance organizations (VCAOs), Indigenous organizations and those based in rural areas, stay operational and accessible to victims during the public health crisis.
Funds will help front-line staff respond to challenges caused by the COVID-19 crisis, and enhance immediate supports for victims, including extended hotel stays, and transportation and meal vouchers through the Victim Quick Response Program Plus (VQRP+).
The government will continue to monitor this situation as it evolves over the coming months and adjust the response appropriately. For more information please visit DougDowney.ca.
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