Groups that deal with domestic violence have reported a sharp upswing in these incidents during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In response, the federal government has delivered $250,000 in funding to 10 Vancouver organizations that provide gender-based violence services.

It's part of a $50-million national initiative under the COVID-19 Economic Response Plan to address this issue. About $40 million is coming through Women and Gender Equality Canada, whose minister is Maryam Monsef.

The following organizations are receiving funds in the latest distribution: WISH Drop-In Centre, SWAN Vancouver, Battered Women’s Support Services, Immigrant Services Society of B.C., Family Services Greater Vancouver, Justice for Girls Outreach Society, MOSAIC, PHS Community Services Society, RayCam Community Association, and Reach Community Health Centre.

"We have seen home isolations due to COVID-19 increase the risk of violence against women, here and globally," Vancouver Liberal MP Dr. Hedy Fry said in the announcement. "For many women, home is not a safe place and the added COVID-related stress and economic hardship exacerbates domestic violence."