Kingston Schools Launch Early Intervention Program to Combat GBV

A new initiative aimed at preventing gender-based violence (GBV) has been launched in Kingston, Ontario. The program, titled “Rewire: Empowering Youth for Healthy Relationships,” is a collaborative effort between the John Howard Society of Kingston & District and the Sexual Assault Centre (SAC) Kingston. Funded by the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, the initiative is part of the province’s Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence.

This early intervention program will be implemented across local school boards, including the Limestone District School Board (LDSB) and the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board (ALCDSB). The need for such a program is pressing; in October 2023, Kingston city council declared intimate partner violence (IPV) an epidemic. IPV encompasses various forms of harm inflicted by current or former intimate partners, as defined by Women and Gender Equality Canada.

Engaging Youth in Meaningful Conversations

“Rewire” is designed to facilitate discussions among youth regarding healthy relationships, emotional intelligence, and responsible behavior both online and offline. The program aims to empower students and staff to engage in these crucial conversations. Research conducted by Dr. Wendy Craig of Queen’s University highlights that many educators feel ill-equipped to address these issues effectively.

Julie Langan, executive director of the John Howard Society of Kingston & District, explained that while the Limestone District School Board was the original partner in the grant proposal, the program is expanding to include the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board and the Upper Canada District School Board as it evolves. “Our staff will begin delivering the program in late September 2025,” Langan noted, adding that the program will initially focus on support staff, who will then deliver it to students.

The program will target students from grade six and up, recognizing that young people often start forming relationships around this age. “We are hoping to engage grades six and up, as we know that youth are starting to engage in relationships around this age, but it will be responsive to the individual school board,” Langan stated.

Proactive Approach to Preventing Violence

By leveraging community expertise and focusing on emerging trends in GBV prevention, “Rewire” offers a proactive, evidence-informed strategy to foster safer and more respectful relationships. The program has six primary objectives aimed at equipping youth with the tools necessary to navigate their relationships effectively.

Brendan Lorimer, the program coordinator, emphasized the collaborative nature of “Rewire.” “This is a collaboration rooted in prevention, aiming to equip youth with the tools many adults wish they’d had. Thanks to this provincial funding, we now have the opportunity to bring this important work into classrooms and hopefully prevent future harm before it starts,” Lorimer explained.

Kirsi Hunnakko, executive director of SAC Kingston, added, “Much of our work in this sector is focused on the impact of violence that has already occurred. We’re excited to partner with the John Howard Society to head upstream and deliver this critical program that aims to stop violence before it starts by empowering youth to recognize and create healthy relationships.”

The collaboration between the two organizations is seen as pivotal in addressing the pressing issue of GBV. Langan expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “By working together, we’re creating a space where young people can learn, grow, and challenge harmful norms in a supportive environment. This program aims to break cycles of gender-based violence and reduce future justice involvement.”

As the program prepares for its launch, those involved are eager to make a tangible difference in the community. For more information about the “Rewire” program or to inquire about participation, interested parties can contact Julie Langan at [email protected]. Additional details about the John Howard Society of Kingston & District and the Sexual Assault Centre Kingston are available on their respective websites.