Addressing Gender-Based Violence in Rural Manitoba through the Women & Gender Equality Project

W.A.G.E. Project Highlights Gaps in Rural Support for Survivors of Gender-Based Violence
By Liway Cabrera – Local Journalism Initiative

NACTV recently spoke with Jamie Brown, Project Coordinator for the Women and Gender Equality (W.A.G.E.) Project at the Women’s Resource Centre. This research-driven initiative is focused on gathering firsthand insights from survivors of gender-based violence and the frontline service providers who support them.

“The goal is to collect enough data to create a comprehensive final report,” Brown explained. “That report will hopefully lead to better support systems and real solutions. That’s always the hope from the Women’s Resource Centre.”

The project is centred on eight rural communities across Manitoba’s Westman region: Killarney, Neepawa, Minnedosa, Virden, Carberry, Shoal Lake, Hamiota, and Pilot Mound. These areas were selected based on both geographic spread and the level of existing services.

“These communities were chosen because they represent a broad range of locations where we’ve identified a clear need for more support,” said Brown.

Early findings from focus group sessions have already revealed significant challenges rural residents face when trying to access services. “In many of these areas, supports are centralized in larger centres like Brandon or Winnipeg,” Brown said. “For those without reliable transportation, just getting to those cities can be a major barrier.”

Another recurring issue is how fragmented current services are. Survivors often have to navigate multiple agencies, attend several appointments, and travel long distances just to get the help they need — an exhausting and sometimes impossible process.

To ensure all voices are heard, the Women’s Resource Centre is encouraging anyone who cannot attend a focus group but still wants to participate to reach out directly at 204-726-8632.