Ottawa, ON – August 26, 2024.  Immigrant Women Services Ottawa (IWSO) announces the receipt of a donation of $80,000 from Medavie Foundation in support of  hiring an additional children’s counsellor for IWSO’s Children Who Witness Violence Program.

“We are proud to support the Children Who Witness Violence Program in collaboration with IWSO,” Jessica Crossman, Community Impact Manager, Medavie Foundation. “IWSO has become a lifeline for immigrant and racialized women and their children in Ottawa and the surrounding areas. The Medavie Foundation is honoured to stand alongside IWSO in support of this vital initiative, as we believe in the transformative power of compassion and community.”

“We are grateful to have been chosen by the Medavie Foundation as a grant recipient for 2024,” said IWSO Executive Director, Mercy Lawluvi, “This grant will allow us to add an additional children’s counsellor to our team, helping us fulfill our commitment to the women we serve by aiding their children in healing from the violence they have witnessed, whether at home or in war. Knowing that the Foundation supports IWSO as we work to make Ottawa a better community for the women and children we serve, is the encouragement that keeps our staff and board committed to our mission.”

Josephine Basudde, Manager of Crisis and Counseling Services at IWSO, added, “As the world becomes more unstable, the number of children requiring counseling through our Children Who Witness Violence program continues to increase. Thanks to today’s $80,000 grant from the Medavie Foundation, we will be able to support these vulnerable children and guide them towards a future free of violence.”

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.  We create opportunities for women as they integrate into a new society, rebuild their lives free of violence, and achieve their personal goals.

About Medavie Foundation:

Medavie is a national health solutions partner and innovative leader in benefits management, health management, and healthcare delivery. With a dedicated team of over 8,200 professionals across Canada, we’re passionate about supporting the wellbeing of Canadians so every life is lived to the fullest.