Public Health Agency of Canada announces funding to combat sexual violence
Making a ChangeLast month, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) unveiled a significant funding initiative aimed at addressing complex public health challenges nationwide, with a focus on enhancing health and social systems to prevent violence.
The Hon. Mark Holland, Canada’s Minister of Health, announced over $3.2 million in funding for various projects across the country, made possible through the Intersectoral Action Fund (ISAF). Among the recipients, Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan (SASS) received $249,465 to strengthen their capacity to implement and evaluate primary prevention strategies aimed at ending sexual violence. SASS is collaborating closely with academic experts and public policy professionals to deepen their understanding of the root causes of sexual violence in Saskatchewan. This funding will support the identification of necessary policies and legislation, as well as the development of new initiatives for intersectoral action on sexual violence prevention across the province.
Sexual violence occurs in a variety of settings, including homes, workplaces, educational institutions, community centers, and online spaces. To effectively prevent sexual violence, it is essential to address the social conditions that perpetuate and enable such behaviour.
“This funding will significantly enhance our ability to understand the prevalence of sexual violence in Saskatchewan and improve how all levels of government and our agencies can respond to and prevent it,” said Kerrie Isaac, Executive Director of SASS. “Preventing sexual violence requires a collaborative effort across sectors, with government, agencies, leaders, and community members working together. This funding will empower us to achieve that goal.”
A total of 16 projects received funding from the ISAF.
“We are grateful to the Public Health Agency of Canada and ISAF for seeing what we will be able to accomplish with the funding, and we look forward to further applying our knowledge and expertise to make Saskatchewan a place free from sexual violence.”
For more information, please contact:
Tal Marsolais
Communications and Community Outreach Specialist
Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan
tal@sassk.ca
Public Health Agency of Canada Announces Funding to Combat Sexual Violence