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Helping Inuit Victims Of Crime In Ottawa

McGuinty Government Invests In Improved Community Services

August 18, 2010

News

Inuit victims of crime in Ottawa will now have access to a new facility specifically designed to help them through the healing process.

Through funding provided by the Aboriginal Victims Support Grant Program, the Tungasuvvingat Inuit Centre has renovated its Mamisarvik Healing Centre. This healing centre will provide a confidential and safe setting where mental health and support services can be offered to victims of crime.

Renovations included the construction of a separate confidential waiting room, reception area and group therapy space along with the installation of an electronic security system to monitor the building and surrounding area.

Quotes

"This support will give the Tungasuvvingat Inuit Centre the ability to tailor their healing services for those who need them."
— Chris Bentley, Attorney General and Minister of Aboriginal Affairs

"Ottawa has one of the largest Inuit communities in Ontario so it is important to have access to facilities and services that reflect the cultural traditions of the Aboriginal community. This support will allow the Tungasuvvingat Inuit Centre to reach out to victims and offer them help when they need it most."
— Dalton McGuinty, MPP Ottawa South and Premier of Ontario

"It is important that the Inuit community in Ottawa have access to victim services and facilities that acknowledge their traditions and culture. The Aboriginal Victim Support Grant has helped the Tungasuvvingat Inuit Centre ensure those needs are met."
— Yasir Naqvi, MPP Ottawa Centre

"With the support of the grant we have been able to provide safe transitional housing and support services to nearly 100 community members who have been victims of crime.  We are thankful to be able to support and empower Inuit as they work through their healing journey."
— Looee Okalik, President, Tungasuvvingat Inuit Board of Directors

Quick Facts

• The Tungasuvvingat Inuit Centre has received $50,000 from the Aboriginal Victims Support Grant Program.
• Two million dollars has been awarded to 19 Aboriginal organizations for 20 local projects that support victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, hate crimes and historic abuse in remote areas of the province.
• Ontario’s Aboriginal Justice Strategy is designed to provide equitable, coordinated, effective and responsive justice services to Aboriginal men, women, children and youth in Ontario.

Learn More

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).

Contacts

Li Koo
Minister's Office, 416-326-3266

Brendan Crawley
Communications Branch, 416-326-2210

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