MP Blake Richards has raised money for RCMP Victims’ Services through the Wild Rose Hockey Challenge each year, and now he is pleased to announce that his Conservative government is making a financial contribution to a program aimed to help victims of crimes.
The Federal Victims Strategy received $26 million from the federal government in 2011 and this past April another $7 million to be dispersed over the next five years.
The goal of the program is to move from simply focusing on ‘justice’ and to remember that victims need assistance as well.
Closer to home, Richards’ hockey challenge has amassed close to $200,000 over the course of four years - $78,000 just this year – something the MP is quite proud of.
“That’s an amazing sum and a strong statement of support for the unsung heroes of our riding’s victims’ services units,” Richards said in his weekly report.
As part of the federal government’s initiative, they have also supported the international campaign, 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence, a project that advocates for an end of violence against women.
“Too often, these victims are frightened into silence,” said Richards. “Our government is giving them a voice again by funding local groups that provide support and counselling to victims of domestic abuse.”
A third endeavour is the creation of the Federal Victims’ Ombudsman’s office, aimed at helping victims’ needs be identified by legislators.
The $26 million plan advises victims on their rights and educates policymakers on the needs of victims.
“Through steps like these,” said Richards, “we are bringing balance back to the criminal justice system.”
