TORONTO – The Ontario government is investing an additional $2 million in annual funding in the Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario (VCAO) Program to ensure victims of crime, their families and witnesses have access to the services and supports they need. The funding will help 46 VCAO organizations across the province respond to the increased demand for front-line services and help victims get supports when and where they need them most.
“Victims and survivors of crime depend on access to immediate and ongoing supports to ensure their safety and help them rebuild their lives,” said Jane McKenna, Associate Minister of Children and Women’s Issues. “VCAO programs offer a variety of crisis intervention services to persons affected by crime and tragic circumstances. This ongoing investment will ensure service providers are better equipped to provide support to those who need it.”
The Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario program provides crisis intervention services to victims of crime and tragic circumstances 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In addition to on-site crisis intervention, other services offered through the program include:
- Safety planning for all eligible victims of crime
- Referrals to appropriate community supports and services
- Needs assessments and customized service plans
- Assisting eligible victims with applications to the Victim Quick Response Program+
- Enhanced support for vulnerable victims
- Referrals to community agencies.
Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario is one of nine victim services programs transferring to the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services from the Ministry of the Attorney General. While the same front-line services providers will continue to provide seamless supports, this change will foster a more coordinated approach to victim services delivery.