The London Abused Women's Centre (LAWC) will receive more than $700,000 over the next five years to help those who want to leave prostitution.
London North Centre MP Susan Truppe and Minister of Justice Peter MacKay made the funding announcement in London on Wednesday.
“Prostitution is a dangerous and exploitative practice fuelled by the demand created by those who purchase sexual services. Our government is committed to protecting all Canadians, and standing up for victims of crime,” Truppe said in a statement.
In December, $20 million in federal funding was promised after legislation took effect that criminalizes the purchase of sexual services.
The LAWC will receive about $140,000 each year, which will go toward counselling, support and information for family and friends of women involved in prostitution to help re-integration, enhanced front-line outreach and continuing support.
MacKay added, “Prostitution damages the people who are caught up in it - whether they be the victims who are being exploited, or the communities that are exposed to the harms that come along with it...With today’s funding, we are helping victims get out of the destructive life of prostitution and begin a path of healing.”
