Province expanding Child Victim Witness Program

$600,000 to Protect Young Victims and Witnesses of Crime

Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing announced the Ontario government is investing $600,000 over three years to help protect child victims and witnesses of crime in Nipissing. The funding is part of the government’s $4.2 million investment to expand the Child Victim Witness Program to more communities across the province.

 “Our government is committed to strengthening our justice system and protecting victims and witnesses of crime,” said MPP Vic Fedeli. “This investment will enable Victim Services of Nipissing Districts to deliver vital services for young victims and witnesses of crime in our community, empowering them and helping to reduce the potential trauma associated with testifying in court.”

 “We thank the Ontario Government for making an investment to support young victims of crime in our community by funding the Child Victim Witness Program. Supporting young victims and witnesses is vital to their healing and to ensuring they feel safe, heard, and protected. With the support of our justice partners, our Child and Youth Advocacy Centre can now provide comprehensive support to child and youth victims of crime—from the initial investigation through the court process—helping them navigate an often overwhelming system with a trauma informed approach.” – Kathleen Jodouin, Executive Director of Victim Services of Nipissing District.

 Victim Services of Nipissing District will deliver the Child Victim Witness Program to help empower young victims and witnesses, under the age of 18 years, the program’s 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 aids)

·       Referrals to other services

·       Support and guidance for caregivers

 “Reliving traumatic experiences in a courtroom can be incredibly difficult – especially for children and youth,” said Attorney General Doug Downey. “That’s why our government is expanding this vital program to more communities, so young victims and witnesses across Ontario have the support they need, closer to home.”

 The Child Victim Witness Program is available in 15 communities across the province.