Unfortunately, it is still a problem. Not just in third world or socially unequal countries, but right here in Canada, in Dufferin County.

November is Women Abuse Prevention Month in Canada, and Family Transition Place's (FTP) annual Wrapped in Courage campaign seeks to not only raise awareness, but support for women who have, or are experiencing violence and abuse, to let them know they are not alone.

“It's a community issue, it's a societal issue,” said Norah Kennedy, FTP's executive director. “We can only really talk about ending violence against women if we're all working together towards it.”

For the month of November, and leading up to their community vigils commemorating the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women in December, FTP is asking for everyone's support that violence doesn't belong in a relationship, whether physical, emotional, verbal, sexual or otherwise.

Wear a purple scarf or tie to show your support. New this year is the LOVE pet bandana. Money raised go towards FTP's programs and services, including their school programs.

Ms. Kennedy said the biggest need is housing. “Women who are staying in the shelter, it's almost impossible for them to find somewhere else to live.”

According to Statistics Canada, The Dufferin and Caledon area sees on average, 100 women and 50 children in emergency shelters each year, with 30 per cent of these admissions as return visits.

Over the summer, FTP had more people staying in the centre, including children, than ever experienced. Ms. Kennedy added the shelter is always full, all the time, and now, women are staying longer, meaning that other are not able to get in. “It's a real vicious cycle,” is how she described it.

The organization's latest creation “Rural Response” is designed to make women feel more comfortable by meeting them in their homes or public places, which Ms. Kennedy said is going very well. “Next year we are looking for other ways to sustain it.”

She explained that the biggest challenge along with showing support and ending the violence, is breaking the stigma, as many think it's a big city issue, not one in a beautiful rural area like Dufferin-Caledon. “It's here in our own community.”

Scarves and ties are available at both RBC branches in Orangeville for $20 each. Dog bandanas are available at Global Pet Foods for $15 each.