More funding from the province for gender-based violence support services.

The New Brunswick government announced $9.2 million on Monday to be shared between several programs and services.

The Second Stage Housing program receives $1.5 million, and the transition housing program is getting $4.6 million to assist with emergency shelter and support.

An additional $2.1 million goes to the gender based outreach program, providing education and support services to victims of violence, and $800 000 for improved access to community-based sexual violence services in New Brunswick.

Clients will also receive help with everyday needs such as toiletries, clothing and food, as well as operational costs reported by organizations, such as rent, utilities, maintenance, equipment and training.

“These additional investments will help stabilize organizations and support their employees by ensuring reasonable and consistent salaries, reducing challenges associated with staff recruitment and retention, and providing administrative support so that front-line workers can devote more time and energy to service delivery,” said Kristal LeBlanc, executive director of the Courage Centre in Shediac, which is operated by the Beauséjour Family Crisis Resource Centre.

Minister for Women’s Equality Lyne Chantal Boudreau said this funding recognizes the value of staff and their expertise, care and resilience, and the importance of ensuring reasonable wages and organizational support.

“These services are delivered by staff who are regularly exposed to trauma and who carry the weight of that work every day.”