Rio Tinto has demonstrated its commitment to addressing domestic and family violence in Canada by contributing $CAD350,000 ($387,000) to 14 organisations that support survivors.
The initiative aligns with the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women and will be the fifth year Rio Tinto has been involved in the campaign.
Since 2020, the mining giant has provided $CAD1.9 million ($2.1 billion) to fund shelters, counselling, education, and other critical services for women, children, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ (two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning) community.
This year’s beneficiaries include the Centre de Solidarité Lesbienne in Montreal and Hope Haven in Labrador City, among others.
“Gender-based violence impacts all aspects of society, and supporting survivors is vital to building safer and stronger communities,” Rio Tinto executive director for aluminium Quebec operations Stéphanie Gignac said.
“At Rio Tinto, we are proud to partner with organisations across Canada that offer life-changing resources to women, children, and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.”
Centre de Solidarité Lesbienne coordinator, volunteer and community engagement lead Aud Langelier said Rio’s funding will make a difference in assisting them to provide support services.
“Rio Tinto’s donation will enable our organisation to directly invest in the support services offered to our communities, thereby concretely improving the lives of every individual who visits the Centre de Solidarité Lesbienne,” Langelier said.
“It will allow us to provide more assistance to our members and address our ever-growing waiting list.”
In addition to community partnerships, Rio Tinto continues to promote inclusivity within its own operations.
The company offers paid leave, emergency housing, and financial support for employees affected by gender-based violence, along with training programs to ensure colleagues can respond effectively and provide support.
Rio Tinto’s Everyday Respect progress report highlights persistent challenges in some areas the company recognise need sustained effort to drive cultural change.
The mining company’s efforts contribute to raising awareness and providing essential resources to those affected by gender-based violence, reflecting its broader goal of empowering communities and promoting equality.