News Release

For Immediate Release
August 12, 2009

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McGuinty Government Invests In Community Services

NEWS

First Nations, Inuit and Métis victims of crime in Hamilton will have greater access to the community services they need to complete the healing process.

Through the Aboriginal Victims Support Grant Program, the Métis Women's Circle will develop a community response guide addressing hate crimes for Aboriginal organizations. It will be written from an Aboriginal perspective and help organizations reach out to more urban-based Aboriginal victims of crime and their families.

Additionally, Niwasa Aboriginal Head Start will provide traditional teachings, ceremonies and healing sessions for Aboriginal women and children who were victims of domestic violence and other crimes.

QUOTES

"We recognize that culturally appropriate victims services rooted in Aboriginal tradition play a vital role in the healing process of Aboriginal victims, and their communities. These projects will improve community-based services and resources for victims of crime in Hamilton."
- Chris Bentley, Attorney General

"These new services address the unique circumstances of First Nations, Inuit and Métis living in Hamilton. This investment will help the victim and community work through the recovery process in a way that is distinct to Aboriginal culture and tradition."
- Ted McMeekin, MPP Ancaster-Dundas-Flamborough-Westdale

QUICK FACTS

• Two million dollars has been awarded for 21 local projects that support Aboriginal victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, hate crimes and historic abuse in primarily underserved areas of the province.
• The two Hamilton Aboriginal projects will receive more than $120,000 in support from the Aboriginal Victims Support Grant Program.
• Ontario is developing an Aboriginal Justice Strategy with a vision to provide coordinated, responsive justice services to First Nations, Inuit and Métis people.

LEARN MORE

Read what people are saying about the Aboriginal Victims Grants recipients.

Learn about Ontario's approach to Aboriginal Affairs.

Find out more about the Aboriginal Victims Support Grant Program. (Information available in English, French, Cree, Ojibway and Oji-Cree)

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Contacts:

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