The Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC) is advancing support for individuals affected by sexual misconduct within Canada’s defence community through its 2025 call for applications for the Community Support for Sexual Misconduct Survivors Grant Program. This initiative aims to broaden access to culturally competent, confidential, and specialized care while fostering collaboration between community-based organizations and Department of National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces service providers. The program ensures that survivors and those impacted have timely access to critical support services in their communities.
The grant program offers one-time project grants of up to $50,000 and recurrent grants of up to $75,000 annually for two to three years, with applications due by October 17, 2025. Funding is anticipated to begin in the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The program targets eligible organizations such as sexual assault centres, counselling services, and community support programs capable of serving individuals across the defence community, including current and former Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans, Department of National Defence employees, cadets, and their families and caregivers.
Projects supported by the program are designed to address the needs of diverse populations, including women, men, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, people with disabilities, official language minority communities, and residents of northern, rural, or remote areas. The SMSRC emphasizes equity and inclusion, ensuring services are accessible to those who cannot easily access in-person care.
The grant program aligns with Canada’s broader strategy to prevent and address gender-based violence under It’s Time: Canada’s Strategy to Prevent and Address Gender-Based Violence. Leadership from the Department of National Defence and Veterans Affairs highlights the importance of strengthening community organizations to provide accessible, dignified, and timely support to those affected by sexual misconduct, reinforcing the Government of Canada’s commitment to a safe and respectful defence community.
