Nova Scotia sexual assault prevention grants announced

The Nova Scotia government is looking for groups to come up with innovative ways to prevent sexual violence.

Community Services Minister Joanne Bernard rolled out a new $1.2-million grant program Monday morning at the Halifax Central Library.

"These grants are about using creative ways to tackle a persistent and difficult issue," said Bernard.

It's also part of a wider sexual assault strategy the province has in place, aimed at getting people support faster, expanding the sexual assault nurse practitioner program, and creating community support networks.

The one-time grants will be distributed over two years and will be divided into two streams: one up to $5,000 and the other up to $50,000.

The government is hoping the grants will support community groups and organizations that include youth and under-served populations.

"The responsibility of preventing sexual violence among youth, women and men, is shared by the whole community," said Bernard.

"That includes new potential partners like Girl Guides, Boy Scouts and student councils in junior and senior high schools."

Sexual assault support groups are applauding the new program.

"One of the major things that was identified all across the province was the need for prevention initiatives and sustainable funding specifically to address prevention," said Jackie Stevens, executive director of the Avalon Sexual Assault Centre in Halifax.

"This continues to provide that opportunity for diverse and marginalized populations to get their voices heard and to be directly involved."

The deadline to submit grant applications is Jan. 15, 2016.