Supporting Survivors of: Gender Based and Intimate Partner Violence
IF YOU ARE IN IMMEDIATE CRISIS, PLEASE CALL 911
or go to your nearest hospital or police station
How it Started
This project came to be in December 2021 in order to support those who have been affected by sexual violence. Initially it was designed to provide comfort kits and fresh new clothing to people who were leaving the Emergency Department at the hospital. It was soon discovered that this was needed in many areas and we hope to one day, be in every hospital in the country.
Currently WHFYC serves 30 locations in New Brunswick and British Columbia. We currently have a pilot project serving the Avalon and Halifax, Nova Scotia areas.
Ask us about coming to your community or province!
In addition to the clothing and kits, we have added gift cards for meals and travel as well as culturally appropriate items, such as head coverings (Hijab) and Indigenous medicine kits.
The founder of this project, Sarah Sherman, felt compelled to help other women, children and young men – who find themselves seeking help after a sexual assault. From personal experience, Sarah knows the trauma of having to get help from the RCMP, going to the ER and the devastating experience of having to undergo a forensice exam from a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) which can take several hours.
“If this helps ONE person regain control of their life and heal just a little bit sooner, then it is worth it! I know that this helps and the nurses are only providing positive and encouraging responses on their and the patients/survivors behalf!”
Sarah Sherman, CEO/Founder
The nurses are amazing, but nothing makes it feel any better. At the end of the exam, Sarah recalled what it was like to put on clothing that did not fit right, was inappropriate for herself and to walk out of the room with nothing. She wanted to do something that would make this recovery a little bit less intimidating for the next person.
Together we can build and create comfort kits, packages of new basic clothing, gift cards for meals or fuel to get to safety and to start the long, difficult recovery process. Each person has different needs, but we are working to cover the basics for them. All supplies are free and donations and grants help support our work. Learn more today about how to donate!
Learn more about our founding vision…
Founding Vision
Established in December 2021, our initiative was born out of a deep-seated commitment to support survivors of sexual violence in the province of New Brunswick. Initially focused on providing comfort kits and fresh clothing to individuals leaving hospital emergency rooms, we quickly realized the widespread need for such support across the hospital system. We currently serve two province, NB and BC and plan to expand further this year. All work is always free and we are volunteers who work closely with Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) also known as Forensic Nurse Examiners (FNE). WHFYC became a registered federal nonprofit on January 11, 2024 and a Canadian charity on April 11, 2024. .
Driven by personal experience, our founder, Sarah Sherman, recognized the profound trauma and challenges faced by survivors seeking help after a sexual violence, family, and intimate partner violence. Having navigated the daunting process of seeking assistance from law enforcement, undergoing examinations, and enduring the emotional strain of the experience, Sarah was compelled to create a more supportive environment for others in similar situations. Sarah understood how important regaining control of one’s life was and established this program to provide immediate, free support to victims and survivors.
Services Offered
- Comfort Kits: Providing essential items and personal care products to survivors to help ease their immediate post-assault experience.
- Fresh Clothing: Offering new, appropriate attire to replace clothing worn during examinations that may be held as evidence and providing dignity and respect.
- Emotional Support: Connecting survivors with compassionate resources and counseling services to aid in their healing journey. Encouraging victims to receive medical care which is imperative for recovery.
- We serve everyone: All services provided are FREE to the recipients and they are never required to report the crime. The supplies are provided to nurses in the hospitals who distribute based on each persons needs. Anyone who sees the SANE/FNE are eligible for our support/supplies.
- Education and Awareness: Conducting workshops, seminars, and outreach programs to raise awareness about sexual violence and prevention strategies.
“”Sarah Sherman was once the invisible little girl lost; the shadow at the edge of the room, that is, until her story made national headlines, and ripped the community apart, which forced everyone to confront the truth. For years Sarah lived a secret hidden life shaped by trauma, silence, guilt, and the struggle to survive. … It took Sarah 55 years to find her voice, and when she did, it became a lifeline for others. No longer silent, she uses her voice to create change, empower others, and share the message, “YOU ARE NOT ALONE!” A must read for those who want to understand the path to recovery and resilience, and for victims and survivors to understand, it is not your fault!”
Purchase your copy by e transfer $25 to goldenunicornpublications@gmail.com add $10 for shipping and handling if required.
$5 from EVERY sale is donated to the charity and the work we do to support survivors of intentional violence.
This event was held on Thursday, May 15, 2025
This was part of Victims of Crime & Survivors week as well as to recognize and raise awareness about Sexual Violence Prevention Month.
Join us in Making a Difference
We’re Here For You Canada invites individuals, businesses, and organizations to join us in our mission to support survivors and prevent sexual violence in our communities.
Together, we can create a more compassionate and supportive environment for all those affected by these devastating crimes.
If you would like to learn more about how to sponsor us as a business, please reach out today.
