Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant concern in Canada, with rates on the rise. While women are disproportionately affected, IPV also impacts men, Indigenous communities, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, and people with disabilities. Women’s shelters play a critical role in providing support, but they face challenges related to funding and limited accessibility in rural areas.
- It is acknowledged in existing federal initiatives like the National Strategy to Address Gender-Based Violence.
- However, it identifies gaps in these strategies, particularly regarding long-term funding and support for rural and Indigenous communities.
It seems to have a proposed two-part solution:
Permanent Funding: Establish a permanent federal fund for constructing shelters and transitional housing. This fund should include dedicated streams for:
- Rural, remote, and Northern communities
- Indigenous communities
Operational Funding: Collaborate with provinces and territories to increase permanent operational funding for existing shelters and transitional housing.
- Permanent funding allows women’s shelters to offer stable support and plan for the future.
- Dedicated funding for rural and Indigenous communities ensures they have access to essential resources despite facing higher IPV rates and logistical challenges.
- Collaboration between all government levels is crucial for a comprehensive approach to combatting IPV.
- The federal government is setting targets for reducing IPV under the National Action Plan. This presents an opportunity to secure funding commitments for survivor housing options.
- The FCM’s existing policy on gender-based violence aligns with this resolution.
By adopting this resolution, the FCM strengthens its commitment to fighting IPV. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration among all government levels to improve shelter support for survivors.
