The Town of Whitby proclaimed November Women Abuse Prevention Month and today acknowledges International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. 

In the 2020 Community Survey residents told us the number one reason they would recommend Whitby as a place to live is because they perceive it as a safe community. Even the safest communities are not immune to violence; there are on occasion random and senseless violent attacks. Earlier this year, local survivor Kimberley was the victim of one such attack. Now, she is speaking out to raise awareness of violence against women and to thank the community for their support in her recovery. Watch and listen to Kimberly at a private gathering held earlier this month at the Butterfly Garden behind Town Hall.

  VIDEO HERE

In support of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, The Town is participating in the international ‘Orange the World’ campaign. Displaying a tree with orange lights from November 28 to December 10, in honour of local survivors, including Kimberley. You can see it shining beside the flagpoles by Town Hall.

Sixty-seven per cent of all Canadians say they personally know at least one woman who has been assaulted. Everyone deserves to live without abuse or fear. If you or someone you know are in need of help, there are ministry-funded emergency shelters available. To find support in your area:

• Call Ontario 211:
• by phone at 2-1-1
• Toll-free: 1-877-330-3213
• Toll-free TTY: 1-888-340-1001
• View Durham Region’s Domestic Violence resources