According to Statistics Canada, in 2024, police services across the country reported 349 victims of family violence per 100,000 individuals and 356 victims of IPV per 100,000 individuals aged 12 and older. These statistics motivated the Foundation to continue its donation, said Patricia Morton.
“Fortunately, while these statistics remain distressing, so far, YWCA Peterborough Haliburton has been able to accommodate 100 per cent of the vulnerable rural women and children who are fleeing from domestic abuse and violence at its safe space in Haliburton County,” she said.
Patricia is a professor emerita who taught history and women’s studies for 26 years at Trent University. She believes that supporting women is vital to creating a safer, more equitable society where families can live and thrive.
“It is becoming almost a tradition for David and I to help support the wonderful work of YWCA Peterborough Haliburton,” she stated. “This year, we are increasing the amount of our annual donation because sadly, recent studies show that children who experience or witness domestic abuse and violence in their own homes have twice the rate of psychiatric disorders as children in non-violent homes.”
“The work that YWCA Peterborough Haliburton does to keep women who are at risk safe is obviously critical. As a man, I am always shocked and appalled at how many men continue to abuse their partners,” said David Morton. “I have never been able to understand why this happens so frequently, but it is something that must somehow be addressed more seriously by social and government agencies. And now, to learn that there have been a few human trafficking cases in Haliburton in recent years makes YWCA’s role even more crucial.”
This is the 13th consecutive year the Morton Family Foundation has donated to YWCA Peterborough Haliburton.
“We are so pleased to be able to continue to support YWCA Peterborough Haliburton’s efforts as its activities in support of abused women are, unfortunately, more needed than ever,” said David.
