The Hon. Peter MacKay and Nazanin Afshin-Jam to Launch Book on the Use of Accredited Facility Dogs to Help Children Who Have Experienced Physical & Sexual Violence

TORONTO, April 22, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Children who have experienced physical and sexual violence face many challenges following the disclosure or discovery of abuse. Participating in a forensic interview, medical evaluation and seeking the appropriate mental health support are just a few of the hurdles families face.

A Friend Like Iggy - Book Launch Event
On April 24^th, Boost Child & Youth Advocacy Centre (Boost CYAC) will host the launch of the children’s’ book, A Friend Like Iggy. Published by Second Story Press, this book teaches the reader about Accredited Facility Dogs and how they support children during difficult situations. Iggy is an Accredited Facility Dog at Boost CYAC. He joined the team in April 2017 to help calm and support children during forensic interviews, therapy sessions, court preparation and while testifying in criminal court. Iggy was the first Accredited Facility Dog to be used in an Ontario child & youth advocacy centre.

The event will feature a book reading by The Honourable Peter MacKay and his wife and human rights activist, Nazanin Afshin-Jam to their own and other children. There will also be a book signing by the author Kathryn Cole and Iggy!

Book Summary
Explore the true story of Iggy, a special dog who helps kids navigate a very difficult time. When children disclose abuse, they often navigate an unfamiliar chain of events, sometimes testifying in court. Iggy is a specially trained Accredited Facility Dog, and his job is to make each child he meets comfortable with the job they have to do. Iggy eases their path with his gentle, non-judgmental friendship. He can be present for police interviews, counselling sessions, court preparation, and testifying. He helps children aged three to eighteen feel more comfortable and confident. It’s a big job, but not too big for a dog with an even bigger heart.

Event Details:

• Date & Time: Wednesday, April 24, 2019 | 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.
• Agenda
  • Welcome – Karyn Kennedy, Boost CYAC President & CEO
  • Remarks – Margie Wolfe, Second Story Press Publisher
  • Remarks – Kathryn Cole, Author
  • Reading – The Honourable Peter MacKay and Nazanin Afshin-Jam
  • Book Signing – Kathryn Cole and Iggy
  • Refreshments
• Location: Boost CYAC: 245 Eglinton Ave. E, 2^nd Floor, Toronto, ON M4P 3B7
• Interviews & Photo Opportunities are available in advance of and during the event.

About Boost Child & Youth Advocacy Centre (Boost CYAC)
Boost CYAC brings together police, child protection, medical and mental health professionals, as well as dedicated child and family advocates, to work under one roof to provide a coordinated response to children, youth and their families when child abuse occurs. This innovative model is a significant shift in service delivery in Toronto and has vastly improved the way services are provided. Now, children, youth and families only have to go to one location when abuse is reported to receive all of the services that are required and they will no longer be further victimized and traumatized by having to repeat what has happened to them many times.

For media interviews and photo opportunities, contact:
Lindsay Jolie, Director of Communications & Community Relations
(416) 560-7568 | [email protected]