PROVINCE TO PROVIDE FUNDING FOR NEW PROGRAM AIMED AT ADULT SURVIVORS OF CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE

Justice Minister and Attorney General Don Morgan today announced the provincial government will provide more than $112,000 in additional funding this fiscal year to the Saskatoon Sexual Assault and Information Centre Inc. (SSAIC) to help establish the Support for Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse Program.

The new program is intended to fill the gap for non-residential services left by Tamara's House: Services for Sexual Abuse Survivors Inc., which recently closed its doors, while continuing to ensure the ongoing needs of victims are met.

"Our government remains committed to supporting victims of violence and abuse in Saskatchewan," Morgan said. "I am pleased that we are able to provide funding to such a highly respected and supportive organization. With the establishment of this new program, we are confident the SSAIC will continue to contribute to the safety and security of victims in Saskatoon and surrounding area."

The funding includes a prorated amount for six months and start-up costs. SSAIC currently receives annual funding from the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General through its Interpersonal Violence and Abuse program to provide services to victims, survivors, and their families and friends of sexual violence. With the new program, this funding will total more than $250,000. SSAIC also receives funding through the Victim's Fund for a specialized services program.

With a focus on adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, the new program will provide a number of valuable services, including:

• specialized intake of adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse;
• individual counselling;
• support groups;
• drop-in support sessions;
• volunteer training; and
• dedicated public education on the issues of adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

"SSAIC is appreciative of this government funding and for its continued commitment to our community," SSAIC Executive Director Elizabeth Freire said. "Through this strong partnership, we continue to move closer to our goal of living in a society where everyone has the ability to achieve their full potential free from sexual violence."

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For more information, contact:

Jared Koback
Justice
Regina
Phone: 306-787-8959
Email: jared.koback@gov.sk.ca