Rogers is expanding its mobile network donation program to more women’s shelters in B.C. and Ontario, the company announced today.
The expansion builds on the digital lifeline support initiative to help women escape domestic violence, which was announced last year. As part of the program, Rogers provided complimentary devices and six months of free voice and data plans in partnership with several support organizations including Women’s Shelter Canada and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada.
A previous Rogers press release noted that many women and children may be at risk of abuse. Even in households with no history of domestic violence, the isolation and financial stress during the pandemic could increase the chances of a conflict.
Through the donation, Rogers hopes to increase access to support resources for victims in these shelters. The new expansion now improves connectivity to 325 women’s shelters in Ontario and 56 shelters in B.C.
“As we continue to move through this pandemic in Ontario, increasing access to gender-based violence services, while decreasing the digital divide faced by many survivors is vitally important,” said Marlene Ham, executive director of Ontario Association of Interval and Transition Houses. “We’re excited about this partnership that works towards more access to the Rogers network, paired with the tools and resources being provided to Violence Against Women Shelter’s across Ontario to ensure survivors are connected to their support system.”
In addition to donating devices, Rogers is investing in digital advertising to raise awareness for domestic violence.
Those who are experiencing domestic violence, or know someone who is, can call the helplines at Ontario.ca. They can also find a shelter near them at sheltersafe.ca.