The Government of British Columbia announced a funding allocation of $1.5 million during the opening ceremony of the third "Victims of Crime Awareness Week" held on April 12 local time, specifically to provide support and services for new immigrants from diverse cultures, addressing the issue of domestic violence.
John van Dongen, the Provincial Minister of Justice, stated that while domestic violence issues transcend race and culture, new immigrants may be more vulnerable to becoming victims of domestic violence due to unfamiliarity with their rights in Canada or language barriers.
Van Dongen mentioned that the newly allocated $1.5 million aims to ensure that higher-risk new immigrants can access culturally appropriate information and services through increased programs and services, preventing them from becoming victims of domestic violence.
Of the $1.5 million allocation, two-thirds will be distributed to five immigrant service organizations in the Greater Vancouver area. These organizations will receive $70,000 annually over the next three years to assist new immigrants in understanding Canada’s judicial system and provide information on victim services.
The provincial government will also establish a provincial protection mechanism in collaboration with relevant departments to provide support to victims of severe domestic violence. The remaining funds will be used to support victims of domestic violence and seniors, as well as to allow communities to conduct their own risk assessments.
