Women's Resources of Kawartha Lakes

Women's Resources of Kawartha Lakes is a Canadian nonprofit and charitable organization dedicated to supporting women and children affected by domestic violence and abuse within the City of Kawartha Lakes, Ontario. Established by local women over 30 years ago, the organization provides a range of services aimed at empowering those fleeing abusive situations to live free from violence.

History and Mission

Founded with the mission "to provide support, counselling, advocacy, education, and research services to meet the needs of women in Victoria County," Women's Resources has been a cornerstone in the local community since its inception. Over the decades, it has evolved into a critical resource for women and children seeking safety and support, maintaining a focus on confidentiality and accessibility in all its programs.

Services

Women's Resources offers a comprehensive suite of free and confidential services, including:

• Emergency Shelter: Since 1992, shelter services have provided refuge to thousands of women and children escaping abuse.
• Counselling: Professional counselling services support survivors in healing from trauma and rebuilding their lives.
• Support Line: A 24-hour support line offers immediate help and crisis intervention.
• Support Groups: Facilitated groups provide emotional support and empowerment.
• Resource Centre: Housing a library with books, DVDs, and online resources, it serves as an educational hub on women's issues and abuse prevention.
• Second-stage Housing: Transitional housing services assist women and children in moving towards independent living.

Impact

Since its founding, Women's Resources has served:

• Over 2,900 women and 23,000 children through emergency shelter.
• More than 400 women and 13 children in second-stage housing.
• Over 40,000 crisis support calls.
• Over 17,000 women through counselling services.

These milestones highlight the organization's vital role in the community's response to intimate partner violence (IPV), which is recognized locally as an epidemic requiring urgent action.

Governance and Staffing

The organization is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors composed of 12 local women and staffed by approximately 44 employees. In addition, over 90 volunteers contribute their time and skills to support the agency’s operations and expand its reach.

Funding

Women's Resources is funded through a variety of sources:

• Provincial government ministries, including the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services and the Ministry of the Attorney General.
• Federal funding via Women and Gender Equality Canada.
• The City of Kawartha Lakes.
• Grants, foundations, corporate donations, and individual contributions.

Accessibility and Community Commitment

Committed to inclusivity, Women's Resources adheres to an Accessibility Policy and a Customer Service Plan to ensure its services are available to all women and individuals identifying as women. The organization remains an active participant in raising awareness around IPV and fostering a safe community environment.

This summary reflects the organization’s longstanding dedication to supporting women and children affected by abuse in Kawartha Lakes, highlighting its comprehensive services, community involvement, and ongoing efforts to combat intimate partner violence.

(Business Registration Number: 129818613RR0001)