TORONTO — The Ontario government is investing over $2 million to help break the cycle of intimate partner violence and keep communities safe. The funding is being delivered through the Partner Assault Response (PAR) program and will support specialized group education and counselling for people who are mandated by the courts to receive it.
“Our government is helping to relieve immediate financial and service pressures that are due, in part, to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as an increase in intimate partner violence cases across the province,” said Attorney General Doug Downey.
“Addressing the root causes of violence is an important part of keeping victims safe and reducing the likelihood of further violence. By investing in the PAR program, we’re taking decisive action to ensure service providers can continue to support victims.”
PAR is a court-mandated program that helps accused people understand intimate partner violence and learn strategies and skills to engage in healthy relationships. The program also supports victims and their families by reducing their isolation and helping them make informed decisions about their safety and relationships with the accused.
“Today’s funding will help make our communities stronger and safer by addressing the issue of intimate partner violence and supporting victims and their families,” said Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity.
“This additional funding is welcome news for PAR providers across Ontario and is a positive step towards helping more clients access the program in a timely fashion,” said Vivien Green, Coordinator of Strategic Projects and Chair of the Board for Counterpoint Counselling and Educational Cooperative. “COVID-19 and the increase in intimate partner violence offences in Ontario has created new challenges in service delivery, but we are hopeful that this additional support will assist in our work to break the cycle of intimate partner violence.”
Quick Facts
- Each year, the PAR Program receives more than 11,000 referrals.
- PAR is delivered by 51 service providers across Ontario.
- In 2020-21, a one-time investment of $1.4 million was provided to PAR providers to support modified service delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic.
SOURCE Province of Ontario
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