Victim Crisis Assistance
The Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario (VCAO) program offers immediate, on-site services to victims of crime and/or tragic circumstances 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days of the year.
VCAO OVERVIEW
Police and emergency services arrange for VCAO Staff and/or Crisis Responders to respond on-site, for short-term emotional and practical support, and make referrals to community agencies for long-term assistance.
VCAO is funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS), Province of Ontario consisting of staff and highly trained volunteer crisis responders within the community who have been trained in crisis intervention. VCAO offers free non-judgmental practical assistance, emotional support and referrals. VCAO programs work in partnership with local police and emergency services and are managed by volunteer community boards of directors.
VCAO Crisis Responders respond to any occurrence where victims, witnesses and family members need emotional support, practical assistance, and/or information or referrals in the aftermath of crisis.
Occurrences Include:
- Criminal Harassment
- Domestic Violence
- Human Trafficking
- Elder Abuse
- Homicide
- Fire
- Missing Persons
- Motor Vehicle Collisions
- Sexual Assault
- Sudden Death
- Suicide
Children under 16 need consent from a parent or guardian to receive services.
To learn more about the VCAO program please contact 519-271-9998 or info@victim-services.com.
