a day ago
Province puts $600K into protecting Windsor-Essex child victims, witnesses of crime
The Ontario government is putting $600,000 over three years into an attempt to protect child victims and witnesses of crime in Windsor-Essex.
Essex Conservative MPP Anthony Leardi says the money is meant to support kids who've been through the "worst," so they don't have to face the justice system alone.
"This investment means real, compassionate support for young victims when they need it most," he said.
Fellow Conservative MPP Andrew Dowie says investments like this better equip our area's most vulnerable "when it matters most," said the representative for Windsor—Tecumseh.
"No child should ever have to face the trauma of a courtroom alone," he said.
New Beginnings, the agency receiving the money, has operated in the region since the early 1970s — providing services related to youth justice, mental health, employment and education.
It is one of 15 communities to deliver Ontario's Child Victim Witness Program for people under the age of 18 by reducing potential trauma associated with testifying in court. The services include:
Providing information about the court process.
Preparing children and youth to testify in court.
Accompanying children and youth to court.
Assessing any special needs during the court process (i.e., testimonial).
Referrals to other services.
Support and guidance for caregivers.
"We're proud to be part of a province-wide effort to reduce the emotional toll of testifying and ensure that every young voice is heard, supported, and protected," said Stacey Yannacopoulos, executive director of New Beginnings.
