Ottawa, ON – July 27, 2021… Immigrant Women Services Ottawa (IWSO), today announced that the Harry P. Ward Foundation has graciously donated $2500 in support of children who witness violence in their homes.  Funding will go directly to providing support for this program that helps the children of immigrant women get the psychological help and tools needed to move forward in their lives and break the cycle of violence towards women.

“Children who witness violence in their homes are potentially adversely affected for a lifetime,” said Mercy Lawluvi, Executive Director of IWSO.  “Post-traumatic stress disorder is fairly common among victims of domestic violence and it’s imperative that we stop this cycle of violence in its tracks.  This program helps the children who witness this violence to find ways and strategies to relieve stress while their mothers seek more substantial supports.”

The Harry P. Ward Foundation’s Board Chair, Manjit Basi said: “It’s essential that children who live through the traumatizing experiences of domestic violence receive support to help them move forward and engage fully in life. Immigrant Women Services Ottawa has demonstrated ample and excellent experience in providing counselling for women and children survivors of violence. The Harry P. Ward Foundation is pleased to provide funding for their “Children Who Witness Violence Program” which has seen an unfortunate increase in demand due to the Covid-19 pandemic.”

“Programs for newcomer women and their children who are abused in their homes by a partner are far and few between.  IWSO is unique in providing this support to these children so they can lead healthier lives in the future, says IWSO manager for Crisis Intervention and Counselling Services, Josphine Basudde.

About Immigrant Women Services Ottawa:

The mandate of (IWSO) is to empower immigrant and racialized women in the City of Ottawa and surrounding areas to participate in the elimination of all forms of abuse against women; to provide culturally responsive services which will facilitate their access to community and mainstream services and provide other services/programs which will assist immigrant women in their journey to attain their full potential.  Immigrant Women Services Ottawa is a community-based agency serving immigrant and racialized women. We create opportunities for women as they integrate into a new society, rebuild their lives free of violence, and achieve their personal goals.

About The Harry P. Ward Foundation:
The Harry P. Ward Foundation is a local non-profit organization that lends support to community-based organizations that are working to improve our community’s quality of life. The Foundation was created by Colonel Ward to serve the homeless, women and children, the elderly, people with disabilities, and those focusing on animal welfare. The proceeds from the endowed fund are distributed bi-annually.