NSHN Launches Victim Services Programming at Blind River Site Press ReleaseApril 24, 2026 Blind River, ON – Through strong collaboration between The Province of Ontario, the North Shore Health Network (NSHN), The Town of Blind River, Mississauga First Nation, Ontario Provincial Police, Huron Shores Family Health Team and the Ontario Network Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Treatment Centres, the North Shore Health Network – Blind River Site is proud to announce the launch of Victim Services Programming. This new program provides sexual assault evidence kit collection and compassionate, trauma-informed resource supports for survivors.Historically, these services were only accessible in Sault Ste Marie and Sudbury, creating significant barriers for individuals seeking care. Challenges related to navigating travel logistics, costs, safety, and timing, added to the trauma experienced by survivors and, in some cases, deterred individuals from accessing care when they needed it most.Survivors accessing care at NSHN can expect: Care delivered with the utmost discretion, respect and without judgement The option to receive care without automatically involving policeo You are in control in deciding whether or not to contact police Access to trained staff available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year Full control over the sexual assault evidence kit process Access to new, comfortable clothing at no cost if personal clothing is collected as evidence Timely access to medications that can help prevent sexually transmitted infections, including HIV No cost for services, available to survivors aged 16 and older The option to be connected to local support services and resources close to home To support awareness, informational cards are being distributed to communities, secondary schools, and social service providers across the North Shore. If you have experienced sexual assault, support is available. Please call 705-356-2265 or 1-888-425-0321 for assistance. If you are in immediate danger, please call 911. For further information, contact:Melanie Kubatlija,Chief Communications Officermkubatlija@nshn.care Laura Mayer, Councillor, Mississaga First Nation & daughter Elizabeth Bellefeuille; Liane Hebner, OPP; Inspector Tyler Sturgeon, Commander, East Algoma Detachment, OPP; Shelley Watt Proulx, Victim Specialist, East Algoma; Tim Vine, President & CEO, NSHN; Alyssa Spooney, Director, Huron Shores Family Health Team; Mayor Sally Hagman, Town of Blind River; MPP Bill Rosenberg, Algoma – Manitoulin; Bonnie Campbell, Nurse Manager, NSHN; Karen Bittner, Director of Facilities and Community Services, Town of Blind River; Elizabeth Cumming, Nurse Manager, NSHN