Searching for Victims Of Crime Support Programs

Major Services:

• 24 hour crisis lines for abused women
• HWP Chat provides online support, Mon-Sun 24 hrs, from a training Violence Against Women Counsellor
• safe shelter accommodation, food, and basic personal items for a maximum of 8 weeks for abused women and their dependent children
• individual and/or supportive group counselling at the shelter
• community agency information and referral when necessary
• court support for interim custody and restraining orders
• children's services
• emergency transportation to shelter, if necessary
• depart planning
• SafePet Program
• advocacy and public education around ending violence against women
• transitional support program
• accepts donations of goods for those in the shelter and those moving from the shelter to permanent housing (see list of needs here)

Family Court Support Worker Program

Facilitates a victim's understanding of and passage through the familly court system.

Support provided includes:

• information on the family court process
• assistance in preparing for family court proceedings (documenting history of abuse, accessing Legal Aid)
• debriefing with clients following family court appearances
• referral to specialized services and supports in the community
• safety planning
• court accompaniment to proceedings when appropriate

Schools programs

• EngageMENt 'male ally' program is a conversation-based 8-week program led by a male facilitator that guides male students through discussion around popular and sports culture, through a gender lens, and discusses what 'healthy masculinity' means, wrapping up by planning an experiential or service learning initiative (participants may receive up to 15 volunteer hours toward their Community Involvement requirement)

If you witness or suspect someone is a victim of human trafficking or sexual exploitation or if a victim comes to you there are agencies in Halton Region that offer help and support services:

Reporting to Police

Halton Regional Police Service

• call 905-825-4777 and ask for the on-duty Vice unit officer

Crime Stoppers of Halton

• 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS)
  
  

Crisis Support & Counselling

Sexual Assault & Violence Intervention Services of Halton (SAVIS)

• 24/7 crisis line 905-875-1555
• Anti-Human Trafficking Services 905-825-3622

Distress Centre Halton

• 24/7 distress line Oakville 905-849-4541, Burlington 905-681-1488, North Halton 905-877-1211

COAST (Crisis Outreach and Support Team)

• 24/7 crisis line 1-877-825-9011

Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline

• 24/7 helpline 1-833-900-1010
  
  

Peer Accompaniment or Mobile Support Workers

Sexual Assault & Violence Intervention Services of Halton (SAVIS)

• 905-825-3622 (after hours call crisis line 905-875-1555)

EFry Hope and Help for Women

• 905-624-1755 (after hours call Female Mobile Support 905-459-1315 ext 250)

Restorations Second Stage Homes

• 905-962-7378
  
  

Emergency Shelter and Practical Assistance

Halton Women's Place

• 905-878-8555 (north Halton), 905-332-7892 (south Halton)

Access Halton

• call 3-1-1
• emergency shelter intake and referral to Salvation Army Halton Lighthouse Shelter (men) or Wesley Housing Services - Halton (women and families)
  

Halton Regional Police Service - Victim Services

• 905-825-4777 ext 5239
  
  

Health Care Support (sexual assault or abuse) & Hospital Emergency Rooms

Nina's Place (located at Joseph Brant Hospital)

• 905-336-4116
• Halton Region's only sexual assault and domestic violence care centre

Joseph Brant Hospital

• 905-632-3737

Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital

• 905-845-2571

Milton District Hospital

• 905-878-2383

Georgetown Hospital

• 905-873-0111
  
  

Support for people younger than 18 or have dependents younger than 18

Halton Children's Aid Society

• 24/7 helpline 905-333-4441

Halton Regional Police Service - Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Bureau

• 24/7 non-emergency 905-825-4747 ext 8970

Internet Child Exploitation Counselling Program (ICE)

• 1-866-264-8900, Mon-Fri 8:30 am-12 noon, 1 pm-4:30 pm
• referrals to short-term counselling

Provides Information and assistance to support participation in and understanding of the criminal court process

• services begin once police have laid charges and continue until the court case is over
• information about victims' rights, the criminal justice process and their specific case (e.g., court dates)
• needs assessment and referrals to community agencies
• crisis intervention, emotional support, victim advocacy
• facilitates victim's input and liaises with Crown Attorneys, police, regarding bail, safety, resolution of charges, release conditions, publication bans, testimonial aids, trial preparation and court orientation
  
• information and support on Victim Impact Statements, Statement on Restitution
• facilitates access to court orders, such as bail conditions, probation orders, peace bonds
• debriefing and follow-up support

Vulnerable Victims and Family Fund -- financial and court-based supports to enable victims of crime and families of homicide victims to attend court

• travel arrangements and expenses
• language interpretation
• real-time captioning or other equipment for victims with disabilities

Offers individual and group counselling for women who have experienced emotional, physical and/or sexual abuse by a partner

• available in-person, by video or phone

Individual counselling:

• individual counselling and therapy services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each woman
• information on abuse, safety planning and community resources is also available
• services are free of charge and offered in Oakville, Burlington, Milton, and Georgetown

Education and support groups:

• eight week group provides an opportunity to decrease isolation and to gain insight into the experience and impact of living with abuse and control
• group is offered frequently, day and evening groups are available

Safety Zone Program

A 12-week group education and counselling program on intimate partner violence and non-abusive ways of resolving conflict

• survivors/partners of the offender are provided with support including safety planning, referrals to community resources, and information on the offender's progress

The program helps participants to:

• take full responsibility for their behaviour
• understand the effects of their behaviour on their partner and their children
• identify and change attitudes that lead to abusive behaviour
• learn to respect the opinions and wishes of all family members

There are separate programs for men and women:

• groups are offered online
• men can join the online program from the Burlington office, if required
• individual sessions are provided for those with same sex-partners

A free legal clinic with volunteer lawyers from across Halton Region, on a rotating schedule, in the following areas:

• family law
• immigration law
• criminal law

Free legal advocacy workers offer emotional and practical support navigating the family law and court system

Offers individual and group counselling for women who have experienced emotional, physical and/or sexual abuse by a partner

• available in-person, by video or phone

Individual counselling:

• individual counselling and therapy services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each woman
• information on abuse, safety planning and community resources is also available
• services are free of charge and offered in Oakville, Burlington, Milton, and Georgetown

Education and support groups:

• eight week group provides an opportunity to decrease isolation and to gain insight into the experience and impact of living with abuse and control
• group is offered frequently, day and evening groups are available

Safety Zone Program

Specially trained staff and volunteer crisis responders, who work with HRPS offering crisis intervention, emotional support, practical assistance and community referrals to victims of crime and tragedy throughout Halton Region

Crisis Intervention

• Unit is equipped to respond to crisis situations 24 hours a day, seven days a week, when requested by a police officer
• when called upon, volunteers respond where required and provide immediate assistance to serious incidents involving a broad spectrum of physical/psychological trauma, including:
  • sudden death
  • homicide and suicide
  • assault, including sexual assault
  • domestic violence
  • elder abuse
  • robberies
  • motor vehicle collisions

Victim Quick Response Program

• provides quick limited financial assistance to victims of homicide, attempted murder, serious physical assault, domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, criminal harassment, child abuse and hate crime
• for more information, visit OAK0194

Mobile Tracking System

• a GPS tracking device that acts as a personal alarm for individuals identified as "at risk" of further violence
• places a priority on victims safety and promotes an improved response to victims

Project Lifesaver

• a program that combines radio technology with a coordinated rapid response to help police locate wandering or missing individuals
• for more information, visit OAK9152

Vulnerable Person Registry

• this service allows a family member and/or caregivers of vulnerable persons to submit critical information to Halton Regional Police Service that may be used during an emergency situation
• for more information, visit OAK0076

A Victim Services Unit office is located in each of the Service's four divisions:

• Halton Hills 10 and 11 Divisions
• Burlington 30 Division
• Milton 12 Division
• Oakville 20 Division

Offers individual and group counselling for women who have experienced emotional, physical and/or sexual abuse by a partner

• available in-person, by video or phone

Individual counselling:

• individual counselling and therapy services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each woman
• information on abuse, safety planning and community resources is also available
• services are free of charge and offered in Oakville, Burlington, Milton, and Georgetown

Education and support groups:

• eight week group provides an opportunity to decrease isolation and to gain insight into the experience and impact of living with abuse and control
• group is offered frequently, day and evening groups are available

Safety Zone Program

• services begin once police have laid charges and continue until the court case is over
• information about victims' rights, the criminal justice process and their specific case (e.g., court dates)
• needs assessment and referrals to community agencies
• crisis intervention, emotional support, victim advocacy
• facilitates victim's input and liaises with Crown Attorneys, police, regarding bail, safety, resolution of charges, release conditions, publication bans, testimonial aids trial preparation and court orientation
• information and support on Victim Impact Statements, Statement on Restitution
• facilitates access to court orders, such as bail conditions, probation orders, peace bonds
• debriefing and follow-up support

• travel arrangements and expenses
• language interpretation
• real-time captioning or other equipment for victims with disabilities

A free legal clinic with volunteer lawyers from across Halton Region, on a rotating schedule, in the following areas:

• family law
• immigration law
• criminal law

Free legal advocacy workers offer emotional and practical support navigating the family law and court system

Crisis Support Workers provide support and assistance to survivors of human trafficking. Services include:

• crisis intervention
• crisis housing
• basic needs
• emotional support
• advocacy & accompaniment
• safety planning and/or risk assessment
• supportive counselling
• practical assistance for transportation & service accessibility
• system navigation and housing supports
• life skills and mentorship

Services include:

• 24-hour crisis line
• free individual counselling for ages 16 and up
• support services for friends and family members
• advocacy, support and accompaniment to Nina's Place, the police station and court

Public Education

• customized public education workshops are available for elementary and high school students, community members and agencies in Halton
• for more information or to book a free presentation contact [email protected], or visit - savisofhalton.org/public-presentations

Anti-Human Trafficking Services

• Case Workers provide support and assistance to survivors
• for more information, see listing - OAK0170

Halton Collaborative Against Human Trafficking

• created to raise awareness about human trafficking in Halton and surrounding area
• for more information, see listing - OAK0047

• individual counselling, advocacy, support groups
• court accompaniment, information and referral

• one-to-one support
• risk assessment and safety planning
• emotional support
• legal support (criminal, family, immigration)
• housing supports
• information and referrals
• problem-solving, advocacy
• shelter access

• capacity 54
• stay up to 4 months
• service provided regardless of geographical location
• referrals to alternative shelters as required based on safety or capacity issues

• pressuring/convincing
• sexual assault
• childhood sexual abuse
• sexual harassment
• online sexual violence

• support with finding housing, accessing child care, health care and other community and social services
• help completing government forms and applications
• seasonal income tax clinic
• connection with community and volunteer opportunities
• monthly Service Canada clinics to assist with OAS, GIS, CPP, CPP disability and survival benefits
• free citizenship preparation sessions
  
• free Oath Commissioning/Notary Public Services

• newcomers learn of rights and responsibilities as community members, impacts of discrimination and biases, Canadian values and enhance inclusive decision-making skills.

• ​cultivates wellness among newcomer youth, 13-25 years, by facilitating access to services and fostering engagement​
• group activities teach healthy coping mechanisms, resilience, self-esteem, leadership development and creative self-expression

• hosts annual "Youth Lead" events to celebrate talent
• fosters academic support including homework assistance and leadership abilities
• coordinates activities to facilitate access to employment support service services, mentorship opportunities and volunteer roles for newcomer and refugee youth

• newcomers are assisted to build skills and tools needed to take control of their financial lives
• through weekly guided sessions newcomers understand financial literacy concepts in addition to the connection between income and careers, and how student loans work
  
  

• workshops covering job search preparation and strategies, labour market information, workplace culture, resume, cover letter and interview preparation, career information and networking opportunities
• one-on-one services to support developing action plans to reach employment goals
• provides resources and referrals for employment needs

• soft skills development; job market insights; cultural adaptation
• interview preparation; resume building; career progression
• community and support
• job placement - 2 weeks, minimum 18 hours' following the workshop participants can take part in the placement program to put newly acquired skills into practice

• individual or group sessions
• short-term, goal focused counselling including the development of transition and safety strategies and information on rights and options
• crisis and support counselling to assist individuals seeking immediate assistance
• linking women to appropriate services in the community that address legal, housing, financial and long term counselling needs

• support and tools to manage the challenges of stress, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, parenting, family conflict, trauma and other life transitions through individual counselling and educational workshops

• LINC classes running online and in-person
• day and evening classes available

• activities to encourage and reinforce family language learning

• crisis intervention and risk assessment
• cultural and intergenerational conflict support
• youth mental health - dealing with anxiety and stress, identifying abusive behaviors and healthy versus unhealthy relationships
• support to parents involved in child protection, education, youth justice and family court systems
• coping strategies for families dealing with separation, divorce, co-parenting or parenting in blended families

• assists clients in achieving their individual support plans and goals
• supports clients and their families in their recovery journey
• advocates with landlords, hospitals, psychiatrists and others on clients' behalf
• assists in developing skills to improve quality of life, resolve day-to-day conflicts, manage setbacks and increase independence and housing stability

• facilitates understanding of family court system by debriefing outcome of court appearances and appointments with lawyers
• access to free legal clinics and consultations
• supports filing documents in person and virtually - Commissioner of Oaths
• conducts risk assessments and helps develop safety plans
• provides assistance in documenting the history of abuse
• accompanying and supporting clients during court proceedings where appropriate

• crisis intervention, counselling and risk assessment
• safety planning and transitional support
• women's groups to support health and wellness
• assistance with legal issues and advocacy
• support groups for women and children who have witnessed abuse through the Helping End Abuse for Life (HEAL) network

• support with finding housing, accessing child care, health care and other community and social services
• help completing government forms and applications, including citizenship applications
• connection with community and volunteer opportunities
• free citizenship preparation sessions
• seasonal income tax clinic
• monthly Service Canada clinics to assist with OAS, GIS, CPP, CPP disability and survival benefits
• free oath commissioning/notary public services

• cultivates wellness among newcomer youth, ages 13-25 years, by facilitating access to services and fostering engagement
• group activities teach healthy coping mechanisms, resilience, self esteem, leadership development and creative self-expression

• annual "Youth Lead" events to celebrate talent
• fosters academic support and leadership abilities
• coordinates access to employment support services, mentorship opportunities and volunteer roles for newcomer and refugee youth

• short-term, goal focused counselling including the development of transition and safety strategies and information on rights and options
• crisis and support counselling to assist individuals seeking immediate assistance
• linking women to appropriate services in the community that address legal, housing, financial and long term counselling needs

• Crisis Intervention Services - additional support for clients who encounter problems and crisis adjusting to life in Canada
• support and tools to manage the challenges of stress, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, parenting, family conflict, trauma and other life transitions through individual counselling and educational workshops

• supportive counselling for parents and families dealing with cultural and inter-generational conflict- culturally and linguistically responsive
• positive parenting strategies and helps families understand the range of supports available
• crisis intervention and risk assessment, system navigational support, linkages to resources for youth and families
• support in areas such as challenges or conflict over social norms, family violence/breakdown, mental health, developmental disability, dealing with anxiety and stress, identifying abusive behaviours and healthy versus unhealthy relationships, coping strategies for families dealing with separation, divorce, co-parenting or parenting in blended families

• Housing and Support in Peel (HASP) in partnership with Supportive Housing in Peel (SHIP) delivers housing support services to clients residing in SHIP units including case management, service coordination, and person-centred centered support planning
• advocates with landlords, hospitals, psychiatrists
• skills development to improve quality of life, resolve day to day conflicts, manage setbacks and increase independence and housing stability

• support to victims of domestic violence navigating the family court system
• helps clients understand their rights and to make informed decisions on matters related to custody, child support, spousal support, and division of property and assets
• helps clients to understand and navigate court appearances and lawyer appointments; safety planning and risk assessments
• assistance documenting the history of abuse
• court accompaniment where appropriate

• culturally sensitive counselling for women who are victims of domestic/family violence and abuse
• crisis intervention, counselling, risk assessment, safety planning, transitional support, educational workshops, assistance with legal issues and advocacy, and referrals to community resources
• women's groups to support health and wellness
• support groups for women and children who have witnessed partner abuse through the Helping End Abuse for Life (HEAL) network
• French service through partners OASIS or La Maison d'Hébergement (see separate listing)

Offers individual and group counselling for women who have experienced emotional, physical and/or sexual abuse by a partner

• available in-person, by video or phone

Individual counselling:

• individual counselling and therapy services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each woman
• information on abuse, safety planning and community resources is also available
• services are free of charge and offered in Oakville, Burlington, Milton, and Georgetown

Education and support groups:

• eight week group provides an opportunity to decrease isolation and to gain insight into the experience and impact of living with abuse and control
• group is offered frequently, day and evening groups are available

Safety Zone Program

A 12-week group education and counselling program on intimate partner violence and non-abusive ways of resolving conflict

• survivors/partners of the offender are provided with support including safety planning, referrals to community resources, and information on the offender's progress

The program helps participants to:

• take full responsibility for their behaviour
• understand the effects of their behaviour on their partner and their children
• identify and change attitudes that lead to abusive behaviour
• learn to respect the opinions and wishes of all family members

There are separate programs for men and women:

• groups are offered online
• men can join the online program from the Burlington office, if required
• individual sessions are provided for those with same sex-partners

• personalized safety planning
• housing and shelter placement support
• assistance with legal aid certificate application
• family court support and bail court updates
• settlement services
• case conferences
• child resource packages and parenting support
• financial subsidy application support
• partner in human trafficking prevention and intervention
• community partner collaborations, including Peel Regional Police

• additional assistance for victims of human trafficking includes storage locker, tattoo removal, and treatment at a recovery facility
• no direct reimbursement to victims for support listed above
• financial support also available for victims who sustained serious physical injuries during a crime and for parents of child homicide victims and spouses of homicide victims

• Crisis, individual and group counselling
• assistance with legal services
• housing support, food, clothing and personal care items
• action plan and life skills development
• self esteem, parenting groups,
• computer training, activities and homework club for children
• safety planning for residents and non-residents

The regional sexual assault and domestic violence care centre of Halton

• team is made up of Registered Nurses (RN), Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) and physicians who provide care on an emergency basis
• RN's work with paediatricians when caring for children
• a registered social worker is also available
• offers choice of care
• services can be provided with or without police involvement

Services include:

• acute care for an assault has occurred within the last 12 days including crisis intervention and emotional support, documentation of assault and injuries, safety planning, and referrals to community agencies for further support
• non-acute care for an assault has occurred more than 12 days ago
• follow-up care
• sexual assault
• domestic abuse