Backgrounder

August 12, 2009

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Two Aboriginal organizations in Hamilton will benefit from grants provided to develop projects that help First Nations, Inuit and Métis victims of crime. Here's what people are saying:

"These two organizations already provide valuable services to Hamilton's Aboriginal community. I'm pleased that these grants will give them the tools they need to create new programs, reach out to the community and provide victims of crime with the help they need and want in order to build a more prosperous future."
- Brad Duguid, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs

"First Nations, Inuit and Métis victims of crime who live in urban areas need access to services that are appropriate to their cultures, languages and experiences. I'm pleased that additional services will now be available to members of these communities living in Hamilton."
- Sophia Aggelonitis, MPP Hamilton Mountain

"The funding through the Aboriginal Victim Grants program is going to help us provide unique cultural victim services to the Aboriginal community in Hamilton. Traditional teachings and ceremonies will attend to the four fires: mind, body, spirit, emotion and will give Aboriginal victims the support they need to begin the healing process."
- Monique Lavallee, Aboriginal Early Years Program Manager

"The injuries caused by hate crime are deep and long in healing. Through this funding we will be able to build a better understanding among the Aboriginal community in Hamilton of what constitutes hate crimes, and develop a comprehensive guide to help service providers meet the needs of victims more effectively."
- Elize Hartley, President, Métis Women's Circle Inc.

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Contacts:

Erin Moroz
Minister's Office, 416-326-1785
Brendan Crawley
Communications Branch, 416-326-2210