New sexual violence services launch in Algoma, ending long-standing care gap

North Shore Health Network launches Blind River victim services program for sexual assault survivors, offering evidence collection, trauma-informed resources.

Survivors of sexual violence in the Algoma area can now access medical and support services closer to home following the launch of a new victim-centred program at the North Shore Health Network’s Blind River site.

The initiative, announced Friday by Ontario Provincial Police’s East Algoma detachment, brings together the OPP, the North Shore Health Network, the Town of Blind River, Mississauga First Nation and the Huron Shores Family Health Team.

Until now, sexual assault evidence kit services and associated medical care were not available in East Algoma communities.

“Survivors were required to travel outside the area to access care, creating significant barriers that are not typically faced in urban areas,” said OPP in a news release.

Police said those barriers disproportionately affected rural residents and many marginalized individuals, resulting in inequitable access to critical services.

“With the introduction of this new programming, that gap is now being addressed,” added OPP.

Services available 24/7 at no cost to survivors 16 and older

Under the new model, OPP said survivors who attend the Blind River site can expect care provided with discretion, dignity, respect and without judgement. Key features of the program include:

• the option to receive care without automatically involving police
• survivors remain in control of whether police are contacted
• access to specially trained staff, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round
• full control and choice throughout the sexual assault evidence kit process
• access to new, comfortable clothing at no cost if personal items are collected as evidence
• timely access to medications that may help prevent sexually transmitted infections – including HIV
• services provided at no cost to survivors aged 16 and older
• the option to be connected with local support services and resources within the community

Partnership sends ‘clear message that community cares’

Insp. Tyler Sturgeon, commander of OPP’s East Algoma detachment, said the program aligns with the provincial police service’s victim-centred and trauma-informed approach.

Sturgeon said the program demonstrates what is possible when communities work together.

“Survivors of sexual violence are not alone and this partnership sends a clear message that their community cares and support is available,” said Sturgeon in a news release.

“If you have experienced sexual assault, support is available,” said OPP.

For more information about available services, OPP directs residents to contact the North Shore Health Network. Additional supports are also available through Victim Services of Algoma.

Police said that in an emergency, the public is reminded to call 911.

Additional resources for sexual assault survivors

If you or someone you know is struggling with sexual assault or trauma, the following resources are available to support people in crisis:

• If you are in immediate danger or fear for your safety, you should call 911.
• A full list of sexual assault centres in Canada that offer information, advocacy and counselling can be found at ReeseCommunity.com. Resources in your community can be found by entering your postal code.
• Helplines, legal services and locations that offer sexual assault kits in Alberta, B.C., Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec, Ontario and Nova Scotia can be found here.
• 24-hour crisis line: 1-416-597-8808
• Assaulted Women’s Helpline: 1-866-863-0511
• National Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419
• Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline: [phone]
• Trans Lifeline: 1-877-330-6366
• Sexual misconduct support for current or former members of the Armed Forces: 1-844-750-1648

Read about your rights as a victim here.

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