Strathroy – Today, on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, M.P. Bev Shipley, speaking on behalf of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, called on Canadians to join the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence . Shipley also announced a call for proposals for projects to address violence against women on university and college campuses.

“Our government is taking targeted and effective action to end violence against women and girls,” said Minister Ambrose. “By inviting proposals for projects that address violence against women and girls on university and college campuses, we are tackling a major health and safety issue that particularly affects young women across Canada.”

From now until January 27, 2012 , the Government of Canada, through the Women’s Program, will accept funding proposals for projects that seek to end violence against women on university and college campuses.

“Over the past several years, the Government of Canada has taken action to help women be safer, more secure and more economically successful,” said Shipley. “With this new funding, we now have an opportunity to address the pressing issue of violence against women in university and college campus communities.”

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence begin on November 25 with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women . The 16 Days encompass Canada’s National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women on December 6 and conclude on December 10.

The Government of Canada is committed to funding projects that strengthen Canadian families and communities. Through Status of Women Canada alone, the government's support for community-based projects has nearly doubled since 2006-2007, growing from $10.8 million to close to $19 million – its highest level ever.

For more information on Status of Women Canada and funding available through the Women’s Program, please visit www.swc.cfc.gc.ca