North Grenville gives help to Victim Services of Leeds & Grenville

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Amidst a growing increase of calls related to abuse and assault since the beginning of the pandemic, the Municipality of North Grenville announced it will provide $32,000 annually to Victim Services of Leeds & Grenville to offer enhanced local community support.

The funding will pay for a dedicated North Grenville Community Response Program. Once COVID-19 emergency orders have been lifted, the program is expected to run out of a confidential office in the North Grenville Library. It will provide referrals, emotional and practical support to victims, along with help navigating the system. In addition, it will offer a single point entry for resources to other support programs and services in the community.

“The Municipality works with community partners every day to address gaps in our support systems. We identified earlier this year the need for a local presence for Victims Services, and unfortunately, the pandemic has further highlighted that need,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford.

,“We want a community where everyone has a safe place to call home, and this funding is a step forward to giving easier access to the supports that, unfortunately, too many in our municipality desperately need.”

According to Victim Services of Leeds & Grenville, Kemptville has a high volume of calls for the size of the population. The calls they receive are often in regards to interpersonal violence, historical sex abuse, spousal, child and elder abuse.

“We are so pleased that the Municipality of North Grenville is helping us establish a stronger presence here,” says Victim Services of Leeds & Grenville Executive Director, Sonya Jodoin. “We know we can do more to help those of all ages who have been through trauma and need support and guidance. We have services that can help them heal and find a way forward.”

The new North Grenville Community Response Program is expected to begin immediately. To access supports or to learn more about the services available through Victim Services of Leeds & Grenville, visit www.vslg.ca or call 1-800-939-7682.

For a list of other local community support programs available during COVID-19, visit www.northgrenville.ca/coronavirus.

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