Northumberland County marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women today as Cornerstone Family Violence Prevention Centre closes out a month of awareness events tied to Woman Abuse Prevention Month.
Municipalities, townships, and emergency services including Cobourg Police Service, Port Hope Police Service, and Cobourg Fire joined Cornerstone in raising Wrapped in Courage flags throughout November to call attention to the impact of gender-based violence (GBV).
The Wrapped in Courage campaign, held across Ontario, brings together Violence Against Women shelters to encourage collective action and public awareness on the issue. Cornerstone’s Executive Director, Nancy Johnston, says incidents of GBV remain prevalent and deeply concerning. OAITH (Ontario Association of Interval & Transition Houses) reports more than 35 femicides in Ontario since November 2024.
Johnston said Cornerstone provided service to more than 3,000 women, children, and youth over the past year through emergency shelter, crisis counselling, housing support, and prevention programs. She noted that raising flags, wearing purple scarves, and engaging in open conversation sends a meaningful message of solidarity and support to survivors.
Cornerstone has supported women and children impacted by GBV since 1983 and emphasized that community leadership and participation is essential to creating a future free from violence. Johnston said every act of awareness contributes toward fostering safety, encouraging survivors to seek help, and demonstrating that Northumberland stands with them.
Cornerstone extends gratitude to all partners, agencies, volunteers, and residents who’ve supported the Wrapped in Courage initiative throughout November, reaffirming the community’s shared commitment to ending gender-based violence.
To learn more about Cornerstone, visit them on the web at: Home | Cornerstone Family Violence Prevention Centre.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)