People in Houston at risk of harm or victimization will benefit from a $45,000 grant to create a community-based team of front-line workers to deliver better and faster access to services.

The teams, known as “situation tables,” are made up of representatives from health, public safety and social service agencies. They proactively identify vulnerable individuals or families who have a significant probability of committing criminal offences or experiencing harm or victimization, and rapidly connect them to services before they experience a negative or traumatic event.

“Situation tables strengthen the co-ordination and effectiveness of social services for high-risk individuals,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “The goal is to assist vulnerable individuals and to increase public safety for everyone in the community.”

Funding is provided by the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General’s Office of Crime Reduction and Gang Outreach (OCR-GO). Since 2017, the OCR-GO has invested more than $1.2 million to develop new tables or enhance existing ones. In 2021-22, the office is providing more than $230,000 to eight communities.

There are 15 situation tables operating in B.C., with work underway on nine more.

Quotes:

Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions –

“When people are in crisis, they need compassionate support and individualized problem-solving. That’s why our government is bringing together front-line workers from multiple agencies, not-for-profits and law enforcement. Situation tables both conserve police resources and connect people to the care they need. I am grateful that a situation table is coming to Houston and optimistic that this powerful tool will connect its community members with services and solve problems before they grow.”

Nathan Cullen, MLA for Stikine –

“Situation tables help bring organizations together so they can provide the best care and support for vulnerable people in the community. This project makes sure that the best supports and programs are available to create a safer and more caring Houston for everyone.”

Shane Brienen, mayor, District of Houston –

“We are grateful to receive this funding to establish a situation table in Houston. This program will help connect vulnerable members of our community with the most applicable and effective resources to help them overcome the challenges they are facing. Houston is a community that works together and supports one another, and the situation table will be another great example of this.”

Learn More:

For more information on situation tables, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/justice/criminal-justice/policing-in-bc/ocr-go/situation-tables