Headline News

Province awards Victim Support Grant to Nottawasaga OPP

October 5, 2023   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

The Nottawasaga OPP will receive over $85,000 from the provincial Victim Support Grant program to help support victims and survivors of intimate partner violence, domestic violence, human trafficking, and child exploitation.

The funding, totalling $85,420.34, will allow the continuation of Project Safe Paths, which helps Nottawasaga OPP and surrounding OPP detachments support victims of human trafficking and intimate partner violence. Project Safe Paths has two dedicated police crisis beds at Imani’s Place in Alliston to facilitate referrals, provide protection and assist in rehabilitating victims of trafficking and intimate partner violence in a culturally affirming environment. Imani’s Place is a black-led organization that provides refuge to young women fleeing domestic violence, human trafficking or any other form of abuse. 

The project will also fund “Bringing Real Internet Guidance to Help Teens” (B.R.I.G.H.T) presentations at schools and in the community.

“Today’s announcement will ensure that the Nottawasaga detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police, along with their dedicated community partners will be able to continue the critical work they do to support victims and survivors of human trafficking, exploitation, and intimate partner violence,” said Brian Saunderson, MPP for Simcoe–Grey. “Community Safety is a top priority of our government and my sincere gratitude goes out to Detachment Commander Inspector Steve Ridout and his team of officers, who are committed to protecting our residents and keeping them our of harms way.”

The Victim Support Grant can be used for a variety of projects and initiatives, including specialized training for law enforcement, culturally responsive education and awareness campaigns, and purchasing technology and equipment to enhance police investigations and provide survivors with the option to complete interviews remotely.

Of the 45 projects being funded across the province, 19 will focus on intimate partner violence and domestic violence, five on human trafficking, three on child exploitation, and 18 will focus on all three areas.

Readers Comments (0)