The John Howard Society of Windsor-Essex County has launched a new program aimed at supporting individuals aged 16 and older who have experienced, been impacted by, or are at risk of gender-based violence.
The Supportive Approach to Finding Empowerment, or SAFE, program offers free and confidential services designed to help participants build stability and independence while connecting with community resources.
According to the organization, the program includes workshops offered both on-site and at partnering community locations, along with long-term case management to assist participants in navigating available supports.
The initiative also includes financial independence and literacy education intended to help participants develop skills such as budgeting, managing debt, navigating banking services and accessing community financial resources.
Organizers say the financial literacy component is meant to address economic challenges that survivors of gender-based violence can face, including financial control, and to support long-term safety and independence.
The program also focuses on resilience and healing through a trauma-informed approach, offering skills-building opportunities related to communication, boundary-setting and healthy relationship development. Participants can also receive personalized safety planning to help identify risks and strengthen protective strategies.
“Our goal is to create a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where survivors can access the resources they need to heal and thrive,” said Devon Reeb, program lead. “By partnering with community organizations, we’re ensuring that these services are accessible to anyone who needs them.”
The Gender-Based Violence Support Program is now enrolling participants. The organization says the services are free of charge, confidential and open to people of all genders, backgrounds and identities.
For more information or to register, people can contact Devon Reeb or Jaime Kennedy at 519-252-3461 or by email at programs@jhswindsor.com.
