Canadians expect to live in a society where the criminal justice system is fair and impartial and supports the needs of victims. This is especially important when those victims or witnesses of abuse and violence are children and youth.
Today, the Honourable Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, announced funding for the Child Witness Centre, a Child and Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC) in Kitchener, Ontario. This funding will strengthen and build the capacity of the core services of the Child Witness Centre to meet the increased demand for child and youth services. Specifically, this funding will provide staff and the multi-disciplinary team with better access to resources, training and skills required to support young victims of abuse.
The Child Witness Centre provides caring and compassionate support, education, and advocacy for children, youth, and their families in dealing with the criminal justice process. Having a single, child-friendly setting means less system-induced trauma for young victims or witnesses and their families who are seeking services. The Centre supports their clients through a very challenging time in their lives, ensuring they are heard and believe in themselves, improving overall mental health and well-being.
Justice Canada is providing the Child Witness Centre $580,000 over five years (2023-2028) to strengthen and build the capacity of their core CYAC services through the Victims Fund - Child Advocacy Centre Initiative.
