Volunteer Appreciation Week at Yorktown Family Services
April 28, 2025
Yorktown Joins Global Dialogue on Reintegration and Psychosocial Supports at Strong Cities Network Summit in Morocco
July 22, 2025
**Update: The program name was updated from ASSIST to RightPlace in September of 2025.**
Yorktown Family Services is proud to announce the launch of RightPlace, a bold, interdisciplinary initiative that aims to prevent gender-based violence and support survivors by connecting Ontarians to real-time care—online and in their communities.
On April 25, 2025, Yorktown welcomed the Honourable Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity, and MPP Michelle Cooper to officially announce this project and the government’s $1,055,800 investment in its delivery. This new funding, part of the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services’ (MCCSS) broader $98 million commitment to community safety, marks a major step forward in Yorktown’s mission to create safer communities across Ontario.
Reaching People Where They Are—Before Violence Happens
RightPlace is a digital-first violence prevention program developed in partnership with Moonshot, a social enterprise known for using data and technology to counter online harms.
Through targeted digital campaigns, RightPlace will reach Ontarians who are seeking information online—offering them pathways to real-world support at moments of critical need. The project will focus on three groups:
- Survivors seeking counselling or local services
- Bystanders concerned about a loved one or friend
- Individuals at risk of causing harm who could benefit from early intervention programs, including Yorktown’s Mindful Fathering group
What sets RightPlace apart is its innovative approach to digital outreach. When someone clicks on an RightPlace ad, they will be connected with a live care navigator—a trained professional who can offer support, help build a safety plan, and guide the person toward local services.
“This work is urgent, and it’s personal,” said Karen Blake, Manager of Community Violence Prevention at Yorktown. “Every click could be someone’s first step toward safety, support, or change.”
A Collaborative Response to Gender-Based Violence in Ontario
Speaking at the announcement, Suzette Arruda-Santos, Executive Director of Yorktown Family Services, emphasized the significance of this partnership:
“Today, we celebrate not only the continued investment from MCCSS and their trust in Yorktown, but also the incredible people who bring our mission to life every single day.”
Moonshot’s Andrew Pel echoed this commitment to collaboration, highlighting the importance of reaching at-risk individuals early through the platforms they’re already using. Together, Yorktown and Moonshot will offer an accessible, scalable, and trauma-informed model to support survivors and prevent violence before it begins.
A Safer, Stronger Ontario Starts with Prevention
RightPlace is more than a program—it’s a call to action. By combining psychotherapeutic services, community support, and digital innovation, this initiative aims to change the trajectory for individuals and families affected by gender-based violence.
“We are grateful to the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services for this critical investment,” said Karen Blake. “Together, we are building stronger partnerships and creating safer spaces for those most at risk.”
Stay Connected
To learn more about Yorktown’s work in gender-based violence prevention or how to access services, visit https://www.yorktownfamilyservices.com/violence-against-women-services/