To the Honorable Kelly Regan
c/o Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women
P.O. Box 745
Halifax, Nova Scotia
B3J 2T3
On behalf of the Provincial Association of Women’s Centres, I would like to extend our appreciation for the emergency support you offered. This support will help us to continue to offer programming and counsel to women around the province during this time of need.
We know that women continue to be disproportionately affected by the pandemic for a number of reasons. Women tend to disproportionately
- work in high-risk fields such as health care and retail
- be tasked with providing unpaid childcare, support to sick family and/or extended family during this time
- be responsible for food security and managing household finances
- live in domestically unstable situations and are basically staying put, so have an increased need for safety discussions and emotional support
Our services are critical as clients are asking for our regular programming and support but now need additional support in navigating online & government resources, financial security and emotional support, unlike any other time.
As you know, April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. While Centres continue to work on various types of activities, we ask for your help in making sure this important topic gets recognized in some way.
We hope you and your family are able to stay healthy during this time. Our thanks again for your continued support and advocacy for women and girls in need.
Sincerely,
Cora Cole
Connect Coordinator