Manitoba Government Press Release–Nov. 1 marks the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Manitoba and the provincial government is raising awareness of the resources available for Manitobans affected by family and intimate partner violence, announced Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Cathy Cox, minister responsible for the status of women.
“Families may be feeling higher tensions right now and we want all Manitobans to know that help is available if they feel unsafe,” said Cox. “We’ve made resources available through a variety of channels, including a texting option, as we know some Manitobans in crisis may not have access to technology or a safe environment to make a phone call.”
In November, radio and social media advertisements and posters will remind Manitobans that shelters remain open and help is available. The province provides funding to support a confidential 24-7 toll-free crisis line staffed by shelters across Manitoba and introduced a new texting option in May for families isolating together during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a continuation of the provincial campaign launched in May to promote the crisis line and new texting option.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened our awareness of family violence, and has contributed to a global increase in domestic and intimate partner violence,” said Cox. “This month, we would like to recognize the support of our agency partners for their expertise in delivering these crucial services, and providing shelter and resources during this challenging time.”
Manitoba’s Family Violence Prevention Program (FVPP) plans and develops community programs that help stop family violence. The program provides funding to community-based organizations that offer special services for abused women and their children and for men living with family violence. Across Manitoba, 33 agencies provide help for people affected by family violence.
Manitobans can call the toll-free crisis line at 1-877-977-0007, text 204-792-5302 or 204-805-6682, or visit www.gov.mb.ca/familyviolence. Crisis lines are confidential and available 24 hours a day. In an emergency, dial 911 or call the local police service.