Introduction

• Victim Crisis Assistance and Referral Services (VCARS) – Lanark County is a volunteer and community-based program that provides assistance to victims affected by crime, tragic circumstance and disaster.  We provide emotional support, practical assistance and information and referral programs. 

• There are currently 46 operational VCARS sites in the Province of Ontario. 

• VCARS - Lanark County is a transfer payment agency (TPA) with core funding provided by the Ministry of the Attorney General, Ontario Victim Services Secretariat. 

• VCARS are mandated to provide immediate, on-scene, short-term support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. 

• The police and VCARS - Lanark County volunteers work in partnership, ensuring that victims receive an appropriate and timely response. We effectively work together to support victims with care, respect and dignity. 

• However, VCARS - Lanark County is a distinct and separate entity. Following police involvement and referral, VCARS - Lanark County services are immediately available at the request of police and consent of the victim(s). Although most referrals come from police, VCARS - Lanark County will respond to self referrals, by telephone only, to ensure safety. VCARS - Lanark County also receives calls for information from social service agencies and other VCARS and emergency service providers.