A Haven Society programs helps victims of assault and violence when they need it most.
Haven’s responder program recently received $6,000 support from the RBC Foundation. According to a press release from RBC, the responder program is a service that connects trained volunteers with victims of sexual assault and domestic violence so that the women are accompanied to forensic and medical exams at the hospital.
“While forensic nurse examiners provide specialized and compassionate medical care, responder program volunteers offer emotional support, help victims navigate the system and connect them with ongoing services,” the press release notes.
The donation from the RBC Foundation covered training workshops to help develop the responder program in Nanaimo.
“The responder program is collaborative community-based project, which ensures our family, friends, neighbours and community members are well supported when they experience power-based crimes,” said Anne Taylor, executive director of Haven Society, in the release.
RBC thanked Haven Society and volunteers in the Nanaimo community for their work on the initiative and their other efforts.