The Howe Sound Women’s Centre Society has launched a new pilot project called “Supported Pathways”.
The project is available to local sexual assault survivors who disclose at any location in Squamish, including Squamish General Hospital.
Visitors to Squamish, community referrals, and self-referrals are welcomed and services will be provided free of cost until August 2021.
The project can be accessed 9 am to 9 pm text or be calling Monday through Saturdays on this dedicated number: 604.389.9168
Supported Pathways offers Specialized Resource Workers to support any adult who requests support after experiencing any form of sexual assault or harassment, whether current or historical.
Described as “a type of bridging service”, Supported Pathways will offer clients practical options.
The program will provide the survivor with information on victim’s rights, reporting options, local wellness programs, as well as criminal and civil legal remedies, all within a safe, trauma-informed format.
As part of this focus, clients will be able to choose whether project services are provided remotely or in person at a safe physical distance.
“I believe Supported Pathways will prove to be even more needed during this pandemic,” said Shannon Cooley Herdman, the project coordinator.
The Howe Sound Women’s Centre is also using the Supported Pathways as an important step towards shifting its programs to be inclusive of all genders, including men.
“We are eager to make our pilot project available to all adults, no matter their gender expression. It is well known that all vulnerable people are targeted by sexual predators, whether someone is under age 25 and female, or when someone is visibly different from the dominant culture.”
“To be clear, police involvement is not required to access our project. An essential aspect of Supportive Pathways will be helping our clients feel empowered as they consider all the next steps available so they can make informed choices, and are more likely to achieve long-term attachment to follow-up resources.”
