If you're new to Canada and your partner is violent towards you, here are some things you should know:

• If you have permanent resident status, you will not be deported if you leave the relationship, even if your spouse is sponsoring you.
• If your spouse is your sponsor and you leave him/her, you may be able to get social assistance on your own and/or for your children.
• If you're a refugee claimant or you do not have permanent status, get legal help right away. Canadian immigration guidelines offer some protection to individuals who are being assaulted by their partners.
• If you're sponsoring your spouse and he/she assaults you, get legal help. You may be able to withdraw your sponsorship.

If English is not your first language, the Responding to family Violence in the Chinese community program located at the Today Centre provides services in Mandarin and Cantonese. For other languages, the Today Centre (780-455-6880) can arrange for an interpreter.