Madam Speaker, we know that women have been disproportionally impacted by the effects of COVID-19. Staying home does not mean staying safe for women and children affected by domestic abuse and men's violence against women.
Halton Women's Place is an essential organization in Milton that offers shelter and crisis services for women and their kids. From the very first day of this pandemic and for many years prior to it, Halton Women's Place has recognized what the pandemic means for women facing abuse and it has been there to help.
Throughout the last week of September, I participated in the Halton Women's Place “Hope in High Heels” event, where men and boys walk in pink high heels to raise money and awareness to end this gender-based violence.
One of the youngest walkers in Milton was my friend, nine year-old Raheem, who raised over $1,000. Raheem is a great example for all men. We need to end men's violence against women and to achieve that, men need to be better allies for women everywhere.
I thank Diane, Carm, Heather and Laurie and everyone at Halton Women's Place for the incredible work they do every single day.