May 19, 2020
Province Introduces New Resources to Support Victims of Family Violence During Pandemic
– – –Texting Services are Available to Those with Safety Concerns: Cox
The Manitoba government is launching new resources to help those affected by family and intimate partner violence during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Cathy Cox, minister responsible for the status of women, announced today.
“Our government is committed to ensuring victims of family and intimate partner violence know support and shelters are still available during these challenging times, but we also know that not everyone has the technology and safe environment to make a phone call,” said Cox. “The new resources I’m announcing today are intended to let people know help and information is available in a variety of ways.”
The province provides funding to support a toll-free crisis line staffed by shelters across Manitoba. The new campaign was created to promote the crisis line and introduce a new texting option.
New radio spots, social media ads and posters will remind Manitobans that shelters are still open and help is available through the toll-free line or by texting directly with two shelters.
If you have concerns about your safety, call the toll-free crisis line at 1-877-977-0007, text 204-792-5302 or 204-805-6682, or visit www.gov.mb.ca/familyviolence. Crisis lines are confidential and available 24 hours a day. In an emergency, dial 911 or call the local police service.
“Families isolated together during the COVID-19 pandemic may be experiencing increased tensions, which can lead to a rise in domestic or family violence,” said Cox. “We want anyone who has concerns about their own, or others’ safety to know help is available.”
The Family Violence Prevention Program (FVPP) plans and develops community programs that help stop family violence. The program provides funding to community-based organizations that offer special services for abused women and their children and for men living with family violence. There are 33 agencies across Manitoba that provide help for people affected by family violence and the minister recognizes the support of agency partners as experts in the delivery of services.
- 30 -