The federal government is granting more than $700,000 to the London Abused Women’s Centre to help those stuck in the sex trade.

MP Susan Truppe and Justice Minister Peter MacKay made the announcement at the York St. location Tuesday afternoon.

The $708,590 in funding will be handed out over a five year period.

“Today is an exciting day, not only for the London Abused Women’s Centre, but for the women and children that we serve,” says LAWC Executive Director Megan Walker. “It’s going to make a big difference in the lives of women in London and Middlesex.”

It will allow for more one-on-one counselling sessions, support and information for friends and family of those involved in prostitution.

The money will also go towards outreach programs and developing exit plans for those stuck in the sex trade. Once the women are off the streets, they will have the support of the organization and help navigating the court system, if necessary.

“Far too many individuals and communities have suffered, and continue to suffer, from the harms that flow from this form of exploitation,” says MP Susan Truppe. “We are proud to be supporting an organization that is making a real difference in this community and in the lives of many women.”

This money comes out of a $20-million fund aimed at helping victims of sex crimes and prostitution.