Improved services for victims of crime In Nipissing

MPP Monique Smith
News Release

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The McGuinty government is investing an addition $83,670 to help improve services for victims of crime in our community, Hon. Monique Smith, MPP for Nipissing announced today.
“This funding will help ensure that that victims of crime in Nipissing receive the assistance and help they need on their road to recovery,” said Smith. “We’re making sure that community groups offering help for victims have the support they need.”

The Supervised Access program in Nipissing is receiving $70,765 in new funding. The program, provided though the Crisis Centre, helps arrange child custody exchanges and visits when there is a safety concern. The program is delivered through partnerships with community-based organizations such as children's mental health centres, neighbourhood support centres, YMCA’s and local children's aid societies.

The Victim Crisis Assistance & Referral Services (VCARS), will receive $5,000 in new funding. The program is a community-based program, working with police, to provide immediate on-site service to victims of crime, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A team of trained volunteers provides on-site, short-term assistance and makes referrals to community agencies for longer-term help.

The Partner Assault Response Program (PAR), which is operated in Nipissing by the Community Counselling Centre, will receive $7,905.10 in new funding. The program offers specialized counselling and educational programs to offenders who have assaulted their partners and are referred by the courts. The goal of a PAR program is to hold offenders accountable for their behaviour and improve safety for the victim.

“We are committed to being there for victims of crime when they need help the most,” said Attorney General Chris Bentley. “That’s why we’re investing in services to help victims of crime across the province.”

QUICK FACTS

- April 13-19, 2008, is National Victims of Crime Awareness Week.

- The Victim Support Line offers information and referrals to organizations that can help victims of crime. It is available in English and French at 1-888-579-2888.

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