Our Main Branches of Work & Intervention

To ensure that our goals are met, the West Island CALACS has divided its activities into several branches, including:

Direct Aid Services

We offer free and confidential help services to support women who have survived sexual assault. Although the West Island CALACS is not a helpline, we offer phone support and information about the victim’s rights as well as the coordinates of resources adapted to the needs of the women seeking our help during our open hours. We also offer emergency meetings, individual follow-ups and support groups.

Prevention, Sensitization and Training

In our quest to eliminate sexual assault, society must first understand the issue. Unfortunately, the majority of public information concerning sexual assault is often laced with common myths and prejudices. Efforts to curb sexual assault must be based on correct and pertinent information. At the West Island CALACS, we believe that by sharing our analysis, reflections and experiences on the subject, we will equip women to free themselves of their fears and help them fight against social and political factors that increase the risks of sexual assault and other forms of coercion.

To meet these goals, we offer sensitisation workshops in schools, to women at risk (women who are discriminated against due to race, sexual orientation, or physical handicap, for example), and also to professionals: CLSCs, interveners in other women centers, police officers or any other professional group showing an interest in being better informed and equipped to work with victims of sexual assault. To request a sensitisation workshop from the West Island CALACS, contact us.

Advocacy

In this branch, we focus on uniting our efforts with other similar organisations. We acknowledge that if we fight alone, we will not be able to eradicate change. We unite our voice with that of other CALACS, women groups, and other non-profit organizations. Together, we have the ability to influence and even transform our society. Among other advocacy activities, the West Island CALACS takes part in La Journée D’Action Contre la Violence Faite aux Femmes (JACVFF), La Journée Mondiale des Femmes on the 8th of August, and La Marche de Mobilisation et de Soutien Pour les Victimes d’Agressons à Caractère Sexuel.