In Ontario, November is Woman Abuse Prevention Month.
To help raise awareness and support those who have been affected by gender-based violence, the Chatham-Kent Women's Shelter held its inaugural Shine the Light event.
"The Shine the Light Event serves as a crucial platform to illuminate the heartbreaking realities faced by women and children fleeing intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking," said the CEO of Chatham-Kent Women's Shelter, Karen Hunter. "We are honored to create a space where personal stories of courage and resilience are shared, empowering women and children to find safety, healing, and look towards to a brighter future."
In an effort to help, Women United, a philanthropic network within United Way, has donated $20,000 to the Chatham-Kent Trauma Support Program.
The Chatham-Kent Trauma Support Program, which is run by the Women's Shelter, offers services that address the unique needs of women and children who have survived physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.
Lorraine Goddard the CEO of United Way Windsor-Essex Chatham-Kent said the organization is honoured to support this program.
"Together, we can create a safer, more supportive community where survivors can find hope and the resources they need to rebuild," Goddard added.