Harry P. Ward Foundation

Ottawa, ON – January 4, 2023… Immigrant Women Services Ottawa (IWSO), today announced that the Harry P. Ward Foundation has graciously donated $2500 to strengthen and expand IWSO’s support group for Immigrant and Racialized women to help them break the cycle of violence.

“This $2,500 grant from the Harry P. Ward Foundation will be put to excellent use helping immigrant and racialized women who are fleeing violence in our community. They will be able to attend support groups with their peers in a safe and empowering environment and make positive changes in their lives.” 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. IWSO support groups for Immigrant and Racialized women, help and support these women who choose to significantly improve their lives and that of their children, when they decide to flee abusive relationships,” says IWSO Manager for Crisis Intervention and Counseling Services, Josphine Basudde.

The Harry P. Ward Foundation’s Board Chair, Manjit Basi said, “It’s imperative that Immigrant women receive support to help them move forward and live a life free of violence and isolation. Immigrant Women Services Ottawa is unique in that their support groups assist women in a culturally appropriate manner that respects each woman’s individual circumstances.

IWSO has demonstrated time and again, that by providing support groups for Immigrant and Racialized women fleeing abuse, significantly improves their chances of not only successfully integrating into our community but thriving in their new lives in Canada.”