Murray Wood: Of Easter bunny bells and Juicy Fruit gum
For Murray Wood, Easter brings to mind grandma's practical advice about repurposing, and some of life's little lessons.
Three Saskatchewan organizations have pulled together to produce a new guide to aid victims of intimate partner or family violence.
The Getting Out Guide is a collaborative effort of STOPS to Violence, the Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS), and the Saskatchewan Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).
“We want people to know that if home is not safe, there are safe places to go,” PATHS executive director Jo-Anne Dusel said in a media release.
The guide addresses a wide range of issues, including recognizing the signs of abuse and developing a plan to leave.
Dusel also noted the timing of the release, with more people staying at home in isolated circumstances due to COVID-19.
“Domestic violence shelters are still open,” she added.
The free guide is based on the real-life experiences of people who were previously victims of abuse and who are now living free of violence.
Anyone can be affected by abuse, regardless of age, gender or sexual orientation, but often animals may also suffer in a violent environment.
“Research shows that the victims of intimate partner and family violence may stay in a dangerous situation rather than leave without their pets,” said Sandra Anderson, the program director for the Saskatchewan SPCA.
The guide is available online or in print form across the province.
It should be noted that abusive partners commonly monitor their victim’s communications so it is advised to not share, tag, text, or email sensitive information to a friend unless you know it is safe to do so.
