The History of VCARS in Ontario

                                         The VCARS model was first launched in 1987 as a pilot project in three areas 

                                         of the province of Ontario. The objective of the project was to identify 

the optimum delivery model for victim services. The community-based victim services pilot project was so

successful in Brant, Frontenac and Sault Ste. Marie that a fourth site, Metropolitan Toronto, became 

operational in 1989. Each year, new VCARS sites have been selected; strategically and geographically 

located to ensure coverage throughout the province. 

In 1989, an independent evaluation of the VCARS projects concluded that victims, police officers,

community agencies and volunteers themselves were in agreement that the provision of immediate 

assistance and timely appropriate referral did help to reduce trauma and enhance recovery from the effects 

of victimization.  

The 1987 pilot project highlighted a number of benefits for the victim, the community and the police. For the 

victim, the benefits are derived out of early assistance to help mitigate the potential for lasting negative 

impact of a traumatic event, while promoting recovery and increasing the individual’s potential as a witness

in the judicial process. The benefits for members of the community include the opportunity to learn about the 

justice system, and to become involved in direct service to people in the community. In accordance with the

Victims’ Bill Of Rights 1995, proclaimed in law on June 11, 1996, the needs and rights of victims of crime 

are supported and recognized. The right to victim services is thus established in law, and is a legislated 

police responsibility.