As the reality of COVID-19 landed in Ontario, reports were released from other countries indicating that demand for violence against women services had as much as tripled following self-isolation.
YWCA staff anticipate a dramatic increase in the need for shelter and support services as women gain more opportunities to seek help during Stage 3 of the reopening plan—particularly once children return to their regular school routines.
While funding from Provincial and Federal Governments has helped women’s shelters address a number of unexpected costs associated with COVID-19, annual government funding covers less than 65% of the organization’s operating costs.