News Release

For Immediate Release
February 24, 2005

Increased Funding To Multi-Service Agency For Women

TORONTO — The Ontario government is providing the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic with $300,000 in annual funding so that it can continue to provide specialized legal services to women who have been assaulted, Attorney General Michael Bryant and the Minister Responsible for Women's Issues Sandra Pupatello announced today.

"This funding acknowledges the importance of the clinic in protecting women from violence and is another step that shows this government's commitment to building stronger, safer communities," said Bryant. "The Schlifer Clinic fulfils an urgent need. There is no other group in Ontario with more legal expertise when it comes to women who have experienced violence."

The Toronto-based Schlifer Clinic is a unique, multi-disciplinary organization that provides counselling, legal and interpretation services, and information and referral services to women who are survivors of violence. The Schlifer Clinic is named after Barbra Schlifer, a young lawyer who was murdered in 1980 on the day she was called to the bar. The clinic was established to carry on Barbra's commitment to social justice issues and services to women.

"By providing annual funding for the clinic, we are demonstrating our government's commitment to doing more to support women who are victims of violence," said Pupatello. "It is critical for abused women to be able to access legal counselling and other supports they need to protect themselves from further violence and to rebuild their lives."

"We are thrilled that the government has recognized the importance of the legal services the Barbra Schlifer Clinic provides," said Executive Director Darlene Lawson. "This partnership between the clinic and the government will continue to make an enormous difference in the lives of women who have experienced abuse."

The clinic receives referrals from over 40 community-based agencies, as well as medical, legal and criminal justice professionals, religious organizations and individuals concerned about violence against women. In 2004 alone, the clinic's legal services project provided services to nearly 400 clients and information and referral services to almost 700 additional clients. In addition, it provided consultation services to other agencies working with assaulted women and provided many hours of public and professional legal education.

"I would like to thank the staff and volunteers of the Schlifer Clinic for their wonderful work and for honouring Barbra Schlifer's memory in the best way possible - by protecting the rights and well-being of other women who have experienced violence and abuse," said Bryant.

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