April 14, 2021
TORONTO — Attorney General Doug Downey issued the following statement recognizing the recipients of the 2020-21 Victim Services Awards of Distinction: "In recognition of exceptional achievements in service to victims of crime in Ontario, the Attorney General's 2020-21 Victim Services Awards of Distinction honour the remarkable contributions of 15 individuals and organizations from across the province. In the face of unprecedented challenges, these dedicated professionals, generous volunteers and outstanding organizations have demonstrated an irrepressible drive to raise awareness of victims' issues, increase access to crisis intervention services and provide compassionate support in times of need. Our government is committed to protecting and supporting victims of crime and fostering the growth of safer communities. We will continue to work with and support community partners in every region to stand up for victims of crime and their families. Recipients of the Victim Services Awards of Distinction have made a lasting impact that leaves a growing legacy in service to victims of crime across Ontario. Individual Recipients
Salem Berhane - Windsor
Cynthia Bland - Ottawa
Alice Czitrom and Pixie - Peterborough
Ian Kelly - Toronto
Erin Lee - Carleton Place
Patti Lessard - Mattawa
Georgette Parsons - Sarnia
Shauna Pitawanakwat - Sioux Lookout
Shalini Konanur - Toronto
Groups and Organizations
EveryMind Child Witness Program - Mississauga
Luke's Place Support and Resource Centre for Women and Children - Oshawa
Muskoka Victim Services, Volunteer Team - Bracebridge
Rainy River District Victim Services - Fort Frances
Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region - Kitchener
Sonhatsi:wa - Ohsweken
I offer my sincere congratulations to each recipient, as well as the teams, networks of support and the communities they represent."
Quick Facts
The Attorney General’s Victim Services Awards of Distinction recognizes the dedication and creativity of professionals and volunteers who serve victims, and the courageous efforts of individuals who have been personally impacted by crime and are now working to raise the profile of victims’ issues in Ontario, including in Indigenous, northern, and rural communities.
The Victim Support Line is a 24/7 provincewide, toll-free telephone service, providing information and referrals to victims of crime in many languages. The support line can be accessed at 1-888-579-2888, at 416-314-2447 in the Greater Toronto Area or chat online Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. – 9 p.m. Eastern Time.
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