Waterloo Region receives $3.4 million for Gang Prevention Initiative

Waterloo Region – The Waterloo Region Crime Prevention Council will receive nearly $3.4 million over 45 months from the National Crime Prevention Strategy administered by Public Safety Canada for a collaborative gang prevention project involving several community partners.

The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of the State (Science and Technology) and Member of Parliament for Cambridge, made the announcement earlier today on behalf of the Honourable Peter Van Loan, Minister of Public Safety. This funding will proactively address gang activity in Waterloo Region by addressing the conditions that give rise to gang involvement and crime in our community.

“We looked at other communities currently experiencing problems with street gangs and asked ‘what could we be doing now in Waterloo Region to be proactive’ rather than wait until we have a serious problem down the road,” said Christiane Sadeler, Executive Director of the Crime Prevention Council. “We need to offer positive alternatives and choices for youth - both those at-risk of entering gangs and those looking to exit gangs.”

Following an initial needs assessment the project will offer a comprehensive strategy to assist youth currently involved in gangs by providing supports in the area of mental health; substance use; education; employment; and family support. Neighbourhood interventions will also provide alternatives for youth-atrisk of being involved in gangs through mentorship programs and recreation supports.

“There is absolutely nothing tougher on crime than preventing it in the first place,” said John Shewchuk, Chair of the Crime Prevention Council.

The partners in the Street Gang Prevention Project include the Crime Prevention Council; Waterloo Regional Police Service; ROOF; John Howard Society; Lutherwood; and St. Mary’s Counselling.

The Waterloo Region Crime Prevention Council works collaboratively to reduce and prevent crime, victimization and fear of crime. It is an advisory committee to the Region of Waterloo and consists of 39 members representing the community-at -large, social services, education, health, planning, justice, police, and community agencies among others.