Scotiabank helps Coalition Against Domestic Violence

IN recognition of International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed on November 25, the Scotiabank Foundation has donated $100,000 to the Coalition Against Domestic Violence (CADV) to fund critical access to psychosocial services for those affected by domestic violence.

These services, a release from the bank said, include professional counselling, clinical therapy, access to legal consultations, case management and referrals, emergency care, food and hygiene support and early-intervention programmes for perpetrators of domestic violence.

The foundation said these services are based on principles of accountability and safety of victims, as well as community outreach to sensitise vulnerable communities which may be informed on issues of abuse or how to access help.

CADV general manager Sabrina Mowlah-Baksh said, “We at the coalition understand the need for an all-of-society approach to ending all forms of violence against women and girls. Comparative data shows that the numbers of those experiencing domestic violence over the past ten years have not decreased, despite herculean efforts by civil-society actors.

“This is a clear signal that we all must do much more, especially in the areas of prevention, protection, justice and social services. The corporate sector's allyship is critical to ending domestic violence, as they possess the power, influence and resources to mount a significant response to this type of violence.

"Scotiabank's partnership with the coalition is a clear example of the type of response required by the corporate sector, especially through its multi-dimensional interventions channelled by its employees. This is such an excellent model.

"CADV anticipates a strengthened, longer-term partnership with Scotiabank as we forge collective actions to ensure that those in intimate relationships and in families can enjoy peaceful, secure and healthy lives.”

Senior vice president and managing director of Scotiabank Gayle Pazos highlighted the critical role of organisations like CADV.

“Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects many. The prevalence of domestic violence is not just a statistic, it represents real lives that are disrupted and sometimes destroyed by abuse.

"The role of the CADV is essential in providing impacted women and children with immediate safety and long-term stability and resilience through a range of services including emergency shelters, legal assistance, counselling, children’s programmes and more.

“These provide abused women the resources they need to help them to rise above their situations and navigate a path to healthier, successful lives.

“(We are) really proud that our employees continue to display their passion for giving back by taking our social impact investments a step further through actively supporting the work of the organisations we are working with such as the CADV. This helps them stay engaged and committed to creating greater impact in our communities.”