The Executive Director of Victim Services Huron Perth is being recognized with one of Ontario’s top honours in the field.
Deborah Logue has received the Attorney General’s Victim Services Award of Distinction, which highlights leadership and impact in supporting victims of crime across the province.
Logue says it was a meaningful 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 led Victim Services Huron Perth since 2016, overseeing its expansion and the merger of the Huron and Perth organizations. She says a big focus has been making sure 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 supports people affected by crime or sudden tragedy, most often domestic and sexual violence cases, but also incidents like fatal collisions or house fires. Support can include crisis response, referrals, safety planning, and access to funding for counselling or transportation.
Logue says demand has changed over the years, especially in the wake of 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 also says rural geography and limited transportation continue to create barriers for people trying to access support.
Despite the challenges, Logue says the work remains deeply 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 says the award reflects not just Logue’s leadership, but the work of frontline staff and volunteers supporting victims across Huron and Perth counties.
