Waterloo Region Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Centre marks 30th anniversary

By Josh Goeree

The Waterloo Region Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Centre (WRSADVTC) is celebrating 30 years in operation this month.

The centre was created in conjunction with St. Mary's General Hospital and Cambridge Memorial Hospital to provide services for victims of sexual assault. It is made up of 12 social workers and 12 forensic nurses and provide on-site counselling, collection of forensic evidence and medications for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). 

Julia Manuel, the director of WRSADVTC, said on the Mike Farwell Show on Wednesday that the usage of the centre has grown during the pandemic. She said this was due to lockdowns and restrictions with adults and children having to stay home.

“I think with the access now to social media and being able to access various websites that provide a misconception of what a healthy relationship is, I think that has assisted the problem in becoming worse than it has been,” said Manuel. She added the solution starts with educating young men on what a health relationship is and what consent is.

WRSADVTC is located at 400 Queen St South in Kitchener, down the street from St. Mary's General Hospital. If anyone is a victim of sexual violence or believes someone is, they are encouraged to call the centre for help.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today