The Executive Director of Victim Services Huron Perth is receiving one of Ontario’s highest accolades in the field.
Deborah Logue has been awarded the Attorney General’s Victim Services Award of Distinction, which recognizes leadership and contributions in assisting victims of crime throughout the province.
Logue describes it as a heartfelt surprise.
“It was exciting to even be nominated,” she said. “And then when I was one of the 20 across the province that was chosen as a winner, it was very humbling for sure.”
Logue has been at the helm of Victim Services Huron Perth since 2016, managing its growth and the merger of the Huron and Perth organizations. She emphasizes that a key goal has been to ensure people know help is available when they need it.
“I think the main recognition was the advocacy and the messaging and ensuring that people know we exist and how they can be helpful,” she said.
Victim Services Huron Perth assists individuals affected by crime or sudden tragedy, primarily dealing with cases involving domestic and sexual violence, but also events like fatal collisions or house fires. Support can include crisis response, referrals, safety planning, and access to funding for counseling or transportation.
Logue notes that demand has evolved over time, particularly following COVID-19 and rising cost pressures.
“The housing situation is difficult.. the cost of housing is astronomical at this point,” she said. “There’s a lot of compounding factors that make abusive or high-risk situations even more unimaginable.”
She adds that rural areas and limited transportation options continue to create obstacles for those seeking support.
Despite these challenges, Logue finds her work incredibly rewarding.
“It’s the difference that we do make in those lives that do reach out to us that fuel us to go on,” she said.
The organization states that this award not only reflects Logue’s leadership but also acknowledges the efforts of frontline staff and volunteers supporting victims throughout Huron and Perth counties.
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