CORNWALL, Ontario – Dozens of sexual abuse victims in SD and G are expected to benefit from a new outreach program created by Sexual Abuse Support Services in Cornwall.
SASS, as it’s known, has received an unspecified grant from the United Way of SD and G to create an outreach program that will see a caseworker visit clients of the sex abuse prevention agency right in their home community throughout the counties.
Angela Vinet, executive director of SASS, was “ecstatic” when she received word of funding for the new program.
“It’s wonderful. We’ve always had the demand to go out there, but we never had the manpower to do it,” she said.
Karina Boucher has been hired by SASS for the duration of the one-year program to act as an outreach worker/counsellor.
Lori Greer, executive director of the United Way, said in an interview it’s the first time since she took over in her role that a new agency has been brought aboard.
“We were really pleased to fund this program because of the outreach going out to women in SD and G who can’t access the service otherwise,” she said.
Those looking to book an appointment with Boucher can phone SASS at 613-932-1755, ext. 27. She will begin circulating in the United Counties next week, dropping off business cards and posters to let residents know about the new program which is geared towards women 16 and up who have been a victim of abuse, or witnessed an attack.
CREATURE CAMP
SASS’s free girls summer camp, known as ‘I am an Emotional Creature’, will take place Aug. 10 to 14 at The Social on Sydney Street.
The camp explores issues surrounding body image, self-esteem, consent, violence and health.
Dramatic arts are used to help the young women explore their questions, concerns and feelings.
For more information on the camp, contact SASS at 613-932-1755, ext. 27.
