'Event was spectacular': Saskatoon sexual assault centre holds 15th annual fundraiser

An annual fundraiser put on by the Saskatoon Sexual Assault and Information Centre (SSAIC) is a chance to acknowledge the courage and resiliency of people who have survived sexual violence, according to the centre's spokesperson Megan Evans.

SSAIC celebrated their fundraiser for the 15th year in a row on Friday at TCUPlace.

Evans saidthe event is aimed at raising funds for the centre and increasing awareness about sexual violence.

• Saskatoon police reach out to victims and survivors of sexual assault

• Sask. sexual assault centre reducing services due to lack of funding

Ithas become known for its fashion show,which includes several Saskatoon police officers strutting their stuffon arunway.

But this year's event also included an emotional story of pain and healing from a survivor of sexual violence.

According to Evans, this year's event sold out.

"We do work really hard to strike a balance between a little bit of public education on a very serious topic, but also just kind of celebrating the efforts of our centre and the work that we do," Evans said.

"Celebrating the courage of survivors and their own resiliency."

She said it's also a chance for SSAIC to connect with the community and raise awareness, so survivors know about the centre.

"Our services are free of charge so that's really important for everyone to know as well," said Evans.

Overall, the "event was spectacular" and everyone lefthappy, she said.

Short on funds

SSAIC is currently struggling with a funding shortage, according to Evans.

The provincially-funded organization has seen a drastic increase in demand over the last few years, with over 540 new clients in 2017-18.

Evans said that has led to increased waiting times for people who need help as soon as possible.

SSAIC also had to cut its hospital support program in May for budget reasons, but Evans saidthe Saskatchewan Health Authority has stepped in to help fill that service.

• Saskatoon sexual assault centre ends hospital support program for assault survivors amid funding struggles

The provincecouldn't be reached for comment, but in May, CBCNews reported that the Government of Saskatchewan provides $1.2 million each year to SSAIC and six other centres in the province.

Saskatchewan also provides $3.9 million to police-based victim services, which includes help for victims in court, such as supporting peopleand using video conferencing to allow a victim's testimony to be given from outside the courtroom.

SSAIC has received $489,000 in funding from the provincial government every year for the last three years. Funding will continue at the same rate for the next three.

SSAIC is encouraging anyone who has experienced sexual violenceto visit their website or contact them at 306-244-2294.