Who We Are

EVA - Renfrew County consists of a diverse cross-section of community stakeholders including survivors of abuse, justice, non-profit, government, faith groups and private organizations. As a group we focus on prevention, education, systemic change, networking and service provision related to all forms of violence against women.

Our Mission

We work to eliminate violence against women in the County of Renfrew. We advocate for personal, systemic and community change that will end violence against women.

Our Purpose

EVA-Renfrew County is a committee that focuses on prevention, education, systemic change, networking, and service provision related to all forms of violence against women throughout Renfrew County.

Our Statement of Principles

  • It is a basic human right to live free of physical, psychological and sexual abuse
  • Violence against women is a widespread social problem that is a reflection of male-dominated structures and attitudes. It reflects the power imbalance between men and women in society
  • Violence against women occurs within all income, educational, occupational, cultural, religious, sexual orientation and racial groupings
  • Violence against women has a negative impact on everyone
  • The terms “family violence”, “domestic violence”, “inter-spousal violence”, or “conjugal violence” are inappropriate and misleading because they do not accurately reflect the true nature of violence against women
  • Ending violence against women is everyone’s responsibility
  • The Committee is inclusive and sensitive to the diversity of the population from a cultural, religious, racial and sexual orientation standpoint
  • The Committee recognizes the contribution survivors can make to the work of the Committee and encourages participation of survivors in the Committee
  • Violence in any form against anyone is unacceptable
  • Men are responsible for their violence against women
  • Sexual violence is rooted in power and control and is one of many forms of systemic violence against women and children that is hidden and stigmatized by society
  • Support to children who witness and/or experience violence against women is critical to prevent future violence and break the cycle of violence
  • The phrase “violence against women” accurately reflects all forms of abuse which women may experience in male/female relationships
  • Organizations and institutions have a responsibility to be vigilant in ensuring their services do not re-victimize women
  • It is recognized that all women are potential consumers of service

Our Goals and Objectives

01

To promote and/or support programs and activities that empower women who have been abused

02

To stay “in tune” to the needs of women who have been abused as being expressed by women via client groups, women’s shelters, sexual assault services, community support and outreach programs, and provincial associations

03

To make presentations to elected officials regarding issues of concern to women who have been abused

04

To promote and / or support legislative changes that would stop the violence and which would positively benefit women

01

To provide and facilitate public education on the issue of violence toward women

02

To educate the community

01

To educate women about existing services

02

To educate various systems and institutions about existing services

01

To promote services that address isolation issues

02

To promote services that address language, cultural, religious, educational, economic, and other barriers to access

01

To identify existing gaps in service

02

To develop and or consider proposals

03

To participate in research activities

04

To support present, improved and new services

01

To promote county-wide participation on EVA-Renfrew County

02

To share information on issues related to violence against women

  • EVA Renfrew County is a member of Building a Bigger Wave.
    The Building a Bigger Wave Ontario Network (BBWON) is a feminist-based, volunteer network of passionate professionals and advocates who believe it is vital to strengthen existing multi-sector tables known as Violence Against Women Coordinating Committees (VAWCCs).
    https://www.buildingabiggerwave.org