The Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan announced a bilateral agreement to support and improve crisis hotlines in the province.

Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, was in Regina, where she announced the federal government would invest $1,000,000 over four years in the province’s crisis hotlines.

“We know that crisis hotlines are an essential service for survivors of gender-based violence, especially those living in rural communities,” Ien said. “They serve as a safe space for anyone seeking help, and they offer a listening ear during someone’s most vulnerable time. Providing timely funding to these organizations will make sure that these hotlines are able to continue providing life-saving services for everyone, no matter where they live.”

The funding will help crisis hotlines offer more robust services, resources, and supports to serve the urgent needs of all survivors of gender-based violence and their families.

Laura Ross, Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport and Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Office said that they welcome the investment with open arms.

“Anyone impacted by gender-based violence knows it is an unthinkable act that affects far too many women and girls throughout Canada and around the world. We welcome this investment, which will help us expand crisis lines, an important step in our ongoing commitment to end gender-based violence and foster better and safer outcomes for women in our province.”

Saskatchewan becomes the eighth province and territory to sign a bilateral agreement to support crisis hotlines.

Since August, the Government of Canada has announced agreements in Manitoba, Yukon, Nova Scotia, British Columbia, Alberta, Quebec, and Prince Edward Island.