By Cecilia Nasmith

Cornerstone Family Violence Prevention Centre is pleased to announce a $63,300 capital grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation that will help the agency expand its community resource centre and provide additional space for direct service provision.

Northumberland-Peterborough South MPP David Piccini acknowledged the work Cornerstone does in support of vulnerable individuals throughout Northumberland County,

“Through the Ontario Trillium Foundation, our Government for the People is helping them to expand their programs and services, which means they will benefit even more women and chidren in the area,” Piccini said in the press release.

More than 600 women and children received services last year. In addition to the facility's enlarged physical footprint, Cornerstone estimates the grant will increase the reach of their services by 30%. Executive director Nancy Johnston said the impact of this growth cannot be underestimated.

“This grant will allow us to expand our space to adequately house our many programs and services that help women and their families overcome their challenges and live a life free from violence,” Johnston stated.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation is an agency of the Government of Ontario and one of Canada's leading granting foundations, awarding more than $120-million last year to some 700 projects designed to build healthy and vibrant Ontario communities.

Cornerstone is committed to breaking the cycle of family violence by providing immediate shelter as well as counselling and prevention services throughout the county. For more information, visit cornerstonenorthumberland.ca.

And if you or someone you love are struggling with abuse, you can seek support day or night by calling their 24-hr. support line at 905-372-0746.