The Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC) is committed to improving access to support services for individuals affected by sexual misconduct within the Defence community.

“Improving access to support services for members of the Defence Community who have been affected by sexual misconduct is a top priority for the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces. By funding projects across Canada, the SMSRC’s Grant Program ensures that our people have access to a broader range of support services. The Defence Community works hard every day to keep Canadians safe and it is our duty to make sure we build an institution where everyone feels respected and empowered to reach their full potential.”

The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence

“Survivors and individuals affected by sexual misconduct should be able to access the support services they need when and where they need them. This program helps expand access to critical support services close to home. By investing in community-based organizations, our government is empowering communities to provide the care and resources that survivors and their families can count on.”

The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence

“The SMSRC Community Support for Sexual Misconduct Survivors Grant Program is open to receiving applications from community-based service providers. I look forward to establishing grant agreements with organizations across the country to support those affected by sexual misconduct. Together, we can work to make sure that those affected have the support they need.”

Linda Rizzo-Michelin, Chief Operating Officer, Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC), Department of National Defence

• The Grant Program was first launched in the fall of 2022 and currently funds 32 projects in Alberta, British Columbia, Quebec, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Saskatchewan.

• Eligible organizations include, but are not limited to, sexual assault centres, community support programs and counselling services who have the capacity and expertise to provide support to those that have been affected by sexual misconduct within the wider Defence community.

• The “wider Defence community” includes current and former CAF members/Veterans, DND public service employees, Cadets, Junior Canadian Rangers, their families, supporters, and caregivers (age 16 and older).

• The program seeks to support projects that address the needs of diverse populations, women, men, sexually and  gender diverse people; Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and additionally sexually and gender diverse (2SLGBTQI+) people; Indigenous Peoples; Black, Asian and other racialized people; people living with disabilities; religious minorities; those living in an official language minority community; those living in northern, rural and remote communities; others with diverse identity factors; and/or people who cannot access services in person.

• In addition to funding community support, the SMSRC provides support services to meet the needs of the wider Defence community.

Associated links

• Community Support for Sexual Misconduct Survivors Grant Program
• Funded projects for the Community Support for Sexual Misconduct Survivors Grant Program
• Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre

Media Relations
Department of National Defence
613-904-3333
mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca