1.2 Million dollar grant program announced for Nova Scotia prevention of sexual violence

The government of Nova Scotia is looking for groups to find innovative ways to prevent sexual violence.

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

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

It also is part of a broader strategy of sexual assault in the province has set up, to get people support faster, expanding the nurse practitioner sexual assault program, and create community support networks .

The time grants will be distributed over two years and will be divided into two parts: one up to $ 5000 and the other up to $ 50,000.

The government hopes the grants will support the groups and organizations that include youth and community underserved populations.

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

"This includes new potential partners such as Guides, Scouts and guidance of students in junior and senior high schools."

Support groups for sexual assault applaud the new program.

"One of the most important things that have been identified throughout 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 this opportunity for diverse and marginalized people to make their voices heard and to be directly involved."

The deadline for grant applications is January 15, 2016.