Canada’s New Government Supports Prince George New Hope’s Initiative To Help Women Starting New Lives

OTTAWA, Feb. 8 – The Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women, announced funding of $49,140 to Prince George New Hope Society, the first grant to be provided through the renewed Women’s Program of Status of Women Canada. This funding will help sex-trade workers start new lives by providing refuge and training opportunities.

“Canada’s New Government is proud to support this initiative, which is taking concrete actions to help directly sex workers and sexually exploited young women, particularly young Aboriginal women, with the safety, hope and tools to come off the streets,” Minister Oda said. “This is an example of the meaningful contributions the government is making to improve the situation of women in key areas, such as women’s economic status and violence against women and girls.” This is the first grant to be provided by Canada’s New Government under the new Terms and Conditions and new guidelines of the Women’s Program at Status of Women Canada. “It is very exciting. We are seeing a positive response as organizations from across the country are coming forward with projects that directly benefit women in their communities. This demonstrates that there is a desire for concrete action from Canadians to make a difference in the lives of women who face challenges,” added Minister Oda.

The mission of the Prince George New Hope Society is to bridge the gap in services for women in sex work by creating a place of safety and security for them to access support and other services pertinent to their needs. Executive Director Christal Capostinsky said, “This funding will permit us to help these women establish a physical, emotional and financial base for themselves and show them that they are valued members of our community.”

Status of Women Canada is a federal government agency working to promote the full participation of women in the economic, social and cultural life of Canada. For more information, visit the website at http://www.swc-cfc.gc.ca/.

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For further information: Véronique Bruneau, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women, (819) 997-7788; Nanci-Jean Waugh, A/Director General, Communications Outreach and Parliamentary Relations Status of Women Canada, (613) 995-7839; This release is also available on the Status of Women Canada website: http://www.swc-cfc.gc.ca.