A Bit of Background

The provision of various French-language services in Ontario was legislated in 1986. One of the ripple effects of this law, Oasis Centre des femmes was established in 1995 as a non-profit organization with a mandate to serve Francophone women who are victims or survivors of abuse. Beyond its primary focus on violence against women, the Centre continues to increase and diversify its services, also providing support to women who are immigrants, refugees or in search of employment.

The Francophone Community in Toronto

The Francophone community in Toronto is very diverse. In addition to native Franco-Ontarians, there are people originating from many different countries who speak various maternal languages but may be more comfortable in French than in English. French-speakers are not always aware of the services that are available to them and, in order to identify those who would benefit from such services, it is often necessary to ask explicitly.

Our Services

Our support services provide women with a space where they will be listened to without being judged, and where a woman's perspective of her abuse or assault is the focus. All of our support services are confidential, free, and available in French for women over the age of 16. The majority of our services are available to women residing in the Greater Toronto Area, however the support line, 1-877-femaide (336-2243), is available in all of Ontario. For more information on this service, visit www.briserlesilence.ca