INCREASE IN FUNDING TO ORGANIZATIONS THAT HELP VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE

Justice Minister and Attorney General Don Morgan today announced that the funding to Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) who assist victims of interpersonal violence and abuse has been increased to $9.3 million.

"Assistance to victims of violence and abuse is very important to this government," Morgan said. "I am happy that we have been able to allocate some additional funds to the organizations that do such important work for Saskatchewan people."

This increases the level of funding for 40 Interpersonal Violence and Abuse services delivered across Saskatchewan by $117,135 over the 2009-2010 funding level.

"The Saskatchewan Association of Sexual Assault Services is satisfied with the one per cent increase in funding received from the Ministry of Justice for the 2010-2011 fiscal year," Saskatchewan Association of Sexual Assault Services Chairperson Jennifer Roy said. "We trust that when the economic situation in the province recovers, this prosperity will be shared with community based organizations. We, the Saskatchewan Association of Sexual Assault Services, look forward to the day when we are no longer required to fundraise to meet our basic budgetary requirements. A one per cent increase is a step toward this goal. We are appreciative of the support we receive and continue to enjoy a strong, collaborative relationship with the Ministry of Justice."

A one per cent increase across the board for CBOs funded by the Ministry of Justice was part of the recent provincial budget. There are 34 organizations that help victims of interpersonal violence and abuse, including 14 residential services for women and their children fleeing domestic violence.

Morgan made the announcement after a visit with the management and staff of Transition House, a refuge for abused women and their children located in Regina.

"It is a sad situation that we have the need for these services," Morgan said. "The programs that these organizations offer contribute greatly to the safety and security of vulnerable people in Saskatchewan."

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For more information, contact:

Laur'Lei Silzer
Justice and Attorney General
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0775
Email: laurlei.silzer@gov.sk.ca