Dozens of families will be spared the tragedy of domestic violence thanks to a $10,346 grant to Deltassist from the Envision Financial.
The funding will go toward Healthy Relationships and Stress Management, a program that counsels people at risk for committing domestic violence.
"The people who contact us are looking for help," says Doug Sabourin, executive director of Deltassist.
"They realize that, without help, their level of violence will escalate. Early support and counselling makes life better for them, their spouse, their children and everyone around them."
Healthy Relationships and Stress Management is offered free to people who struggle with anger management and violent tendencies. The 12-week program is conducted in a group setting with professional counsellors, and includes a series of follow-up conversations to provide additional support if needed.
The program does not fall under provincially funded services, so Deltassist relies on organizations like Envision Financial and private donations for funding.
"Without companies like Envision, we wouldn't be able to get these people the help they need to stop the cycle of violence," says Sabourin.
The grant comes from the Envision Financial Community Endowment housed with First West Foundation. Established in 1996, the First West Foundation's purpose is to support initiatives that enhance the quality of life in the communities served by First West Credit Union and to create capital for sustainable community support by encouraging philanthropy. Since inception, the foundation has distributed over $2 million in grants to charities.
Envision Financial is a division of First West Credit Union.
"Deltassist programs make a real difference in the lives of people in our community," says First West Foundation chair Peter Podovinikoff. "We're glad that our modest contribution can have such a positive impact on so many lives."
A new group will be starting soon. Anyone interested in more information about the group or to take part can call 604-594-3455.
