Mission Statement:

The Sexual Assault Centre Quinte & District is a feminist organization that provides support to people who have been affected by sexual violence through counselling programs, advocacy, public education and prevention strategies.

Vision Statement:

SACQD envisions safe and inclusive communities free from sexual violence.

Value Statement:

SACQD believes in a non-judgmental, inclusive approach that is client-focused and respectful of the individual’s personal healing path.

History

In 1987 an Emergency Health Care Needs study found a great need for sexual assault services in the counties of Hastings and Prince Edward. In 1990 some local women, including women from the Safe Homes agencies, formed a committee to solicit funds for sexual assault services. With funding from the Ontario Ministry of Community and Social Services this committee hired a local therapist to facilitate a group to train other therapists to work with survivors of sexual violence. In addition, they were able to obtain funding from the Ontario Women’s Directorate to provide Hastings and Prince Edward Counties with a Sexual Assault Protocol and Community Service Plan.

Next, the committee secured an $80 000 grant from the Ontario Ministry of Health and hired a co-ordinator for the Centre. The Sexual Assault Centre for Quinte and District officially began operation on June 24, 1991. In addition to Centre activities that are focused in the Belleville area, sexual assault services and co-ordination of services are provided to outlying areas.

SACQD services extend throughout Hastings and Prince Edward Counties, through locations in Belleville, Trenton, Picton and Bancroft.