Over $250K in Crime Proceeds Transformed into Support for North Okanagan Victims

In the North Okanagan, over $250,000 is being invested in crime and violence prevention projects. This funding comes from the Civil Forfeiture Grant program, aimed at helping local communities across British Columbia.

MLA Harwinder Sandhu highlighted the importance of supporting vulnerable groups. He praised local organizations that work tirelessly to uplift those facing tough situations. “I’ve seen the difference they make,” he said.

This program takes money earned from seizing property linked to crime and uses it to fund services that prevent crime or assist victims. Sandhu emphasized this effort to create hope and healing in the community. The program reinvests in organizations like the Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon and the Vernon Youth Advocacy Centre. Their work includes restorative justice and outreach, boosting community safety and resilience.

Five notable projects in the North Okanagan are set to benefit from this funding:

• Archway Society for Domestic Peace, Oak Child and Youth Advocacy Centre — $140,000: This center provides trauma-informed services for children and youth who have experienced abuse. They plan to support around 200 individuals in the coming year.
• This Space Belongs To You Society, This Space Believes — $40,000: This initiative will offer counseling and peer support for 40 2S/LGBTQIA+ youth, helping them recover from gender-based violence.
• North Okanagan Youth and Family Services Society, Family Peace Program — $40,000: Aiming to educate young people about preventing violence in intimate relationships.
• Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon, restorative justice services — $39,867: This project aims to support victims and offenders, encouraging community connections and restorative practices.
• Family Resource Centre for the North Okanagan, sexual assault response — $21,500: Focusing on counseling and resources for male and non-binary victims of sexual assault.

Additionally, the provincial government has allocated $9.1 million in one-time grants for a total of 166 projects across B.C. This funding includes resources for specialized police training and support for community initiatives.

The Civil Forfeiture Office, founded in 2006, aims to remove funds and tools from criminal activities and redirect them to community safety programs. This approach not only addresses crime but also fosters healing and resilience in affected communities.

For a complete list of grant recipients, check the B.C. government website.

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