Being a victim of crime can be a traumatic and life-changing experience.
But when crime happens, the two staff and 15 dedicated volunteers of the Prince George RCMP Victim Services Unit are available to help victims though the days and weeks that follow.
“They provide emotional support, court accompaniment and orientation, aid with completing financial compensation forms, referrals for counselling, legal and community resources, and criminal investigation information updating clients on their file status as it moves through the investigation process,” city director of public safety Adam Davey wrote in a report going to city council on Monday. “The RCMP Victim Services unit has graciously received a $50,000 grant for the purchase of a new Victim Services vehicle from a local organization that wishes to remain anonymous until they have issued a media release, sometime following council’s approval.”
The unit’s current vehicle, which was also donated, is 16 years old and the unit is looking to replace it with a more reliable vehicle, Davey wrote. The $50,000 donation will cover the cost of purchasing a new vehicle for the unit.
“The unit uses their vehicle as a mobile office, providing shelter and transportation for victims, witnesses and families while attending on scene,” he added. “The RCMP Victim Services Unit would like to thank the local donor for its support towards purchasing a much-needed replacement Victim Services vehicle. Upon council’s approval, the vehicle will be purchased for the unit and be added to the city’s fleet inventory by the beginning of September.”
Council will consider approval of the vehicle purchase during Monday’s regular city council meeting.
