Campbell River's youth crime prevention program is getting a financial boost from the provincial government.
Through the province's Guns and Gangs Violence Action Fund, the City of Campbell River has received $89,650 in new funding to support its Crime Prevention Youth Engagement Program. The program provides education and intervention services to support at-risk and vulnerable young people to help them stay away from gangs and organized-crime activity.
Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, said in a media release from Sept. 11 the funding helps co-ordinate efforts with local, provincial and federal partners to ensure the right policies keep people and communities safe.
“Supporting our youth and keeping them safe from gang violence and organized crime is a priority for our community,” said Michele Babchuk, MLA for North Island. “This funding for the Crime Prevention Youth Engagement Program will provide resources to help at-risk youth in Campbell River make positive choices and stay on the right path, creating a safe environment where young people can thrive and build brighter futures.”
The City of Campbell River recently partnered with the Canadian Centre for Safer Communities to launch a survey to help develop its Community Safety and Well-Being Plan, which is set to be completed in late 2024. The information collected will be used to build the safety plan and will continue to enhance public safety in Campbell River in the future.
The funding is made available under the federal government’s Initiative to Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, and it will be directed toward the program's development.
“The support from the province via the Guns and Gangs Violence Action funding will enhance the City of Campbell River’s existing Crime Prevention Youth Engagement Program,” said Kermit Dahl, mayor of Campbell River. “By connecting youth with engagement programs and encouraging early intervention for at-risk individuals through this program, this council continues to prioritize a healthy and safe community and helps make Campbell River safer today and for future generations.”
According to the province, $100 million is allocated annually to enhance its firearm forensic capabilities, strengthen gang enforcement and suppression efforts, and fund community-based prevention and intervention initiatives.
