Rio Tinto strengthens support for organisations responding to gender-based violence across Canada

MONTREAL--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, Rio Tinto is reaffirming its commitment to addressing domestic and family violence by extending support to local organisations across Canada. For the sixth consecutive year, Rio Tinto is partnering with organisations that provide shelter, counselling, education, training, and services to help women, children, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community rebuild their lives.

This year, Rio Tinto is contributing $400,000 to support 15 organisations delivering essential services to those affected by gender-based violence.

Rio Tinto Aluminium & Lithium Chief Executive Jérôme Pécresse said: "Our responsibility as an employer begins with ensuring that every person at Rio Tinto feels safe and supported. This same priority extends to the communities around our operations. Gender-based violence has significant impacts on individuals and families, and organisations across Canada provide critical assistance to those affected. Through this initiative, we are contributing to the work they do to protect individuals and strengthen community resilience."

Since 2020, Rio Tinto has provided $2.335 million in funding for this initiative in Canada, supporting organisations such as SOS violence conjugale.

SOS violence conjugale Executive Director Jocelyne Jolin said: "Rio Tinto’s support will allow SOS violence conjugale to modernise its tools and protocols in order to improve victim safety and facilitate access to information and essential resources for those seeking to break free from the cycle of violence. What also matters is Rio Tinto’s stance. Seeing a company publicly affirm its commitment to victims and to addressing intimate partner violence sends a strong message. Together, we are showing that change is possible and that no one should have to face violence alone."

As part of its commitment to the safety and well-being of its employees, Rio Tinto provides access to resources including additional paid leave, emergency accommodation, and financial support for those who may experience gender-based violence. Employees also have access to training to help them offer safe and appropriate assistance when needed.

This year, Rio Tinto is partnering with the following 15 organisations:

• Centre Femmes Aux 4 Vents, Sept-Iles, Quebec
• Centre Le Volet des Femmes, Havre-Saint-Pierre, Quebec
• Centre Napeu Ekuanitshit, Havre-Saint-Pierre, Quebec
• Elisabeth Fry Society, Burns Lake, British Columbia
• Hope Haven, Labrador City, Newfoundland and Labrador
• Ksan Society, Terrace, British Columbia
• La maison d’hébergement Ashpukun, Matimekush-Lac John, Quebec
• La Maison d’hébergement Le Rivage, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec
• Le Chaînon, Montreal, Quebec
• Maison La Source, Sorel-Tracy, Quebec
• Montreal Women’s Y Foundation, Montreal, Quebec
• Optimum, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec
• Puakuteu Comité de femmes de Mashteuiatsh, Mashteuiatsh, Quebec
• SOS violence conjugale, Montreal, Quebec
• YWCA Sutherland House, Fort Smith, Northwest Territories

Notes to editors

Recognising domestic violence is critical and can help save a life. If someone shares that they have been experiencing domestic violence, it is important to respond in a way to help that is safe, respectful, and centered on their needs. Resources on how to support people experiencing domestic violence can be found here.