Space is still available in one of two workshops organized by a Newmarket mom to help local girls and women learn how to protect themselves.
When Nicole Craddock heard about the armed daytime sex assault of a young teen girl on an Aurora trail June 24, she decided to do something about it not only for herself and her 10-year-old daughter, but for others in the community.
The self-defence workshops will be led by a certified Wen-do instructor and combines easy-to-learn moves in a safe space to discuss the issues around assault.
The region’s only sexual violence crisis centre, the Women’s Support Network of York Region, headquartered in Newmarket, will also be on hand to talk about the issues and hand out educational material.
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“I think the main thing is having girls and women come away with a sense of awareness and confidence,” Craddock said. “I saw an article recently saying that crime severity continues to rise in York Region, and while I don’t think we need to create fear in our community, we do need to have the skills and knowledge to protect ourselves should we find ourselves in a situation where we may face an assault.”
A 22-year-old Newmarket man has been charged in the Aurora incident with aggravated sexual assault, assault with a weapon, pointing a firearm, possession of a weapon, and sexual interference person under 16.
Craddock said the workshops are not just for mothers and daughters, all women are welcome to attend the “girls’ night out”.
The Aug. 12 workshop is sold out, but space remains in the Monday, Aug. 19 session, beginning at 6 p.m. The workshop will be held at Dish Events, 212 Earl Stewart Dr., in Aurora.
Classes are limited to 20 attendees and are for ages 10 and up. The cost is $30 per person. You can register here.
A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Women's Support Network and attendees are encouraged to bring along donations to fill up emergency bags for the network’s clients.
Emergency bag items can include the following:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Face wash, body wash, body lotion, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant
- Makeup mirror, toiletry bag, a purse, wallet
- Journal and pen
- Hair brush/comb, hair elastics
- Feminine hygiene products
- Bath towel
- Undergarments, socks, slippers, pyjamas
- International phone card
- Gift cards to Walmart, Loblaws, Tim Hortons, etc.
- Backpack or duffel bag
- Used cellphone in working condition
- Clothing in the same size
