Steinbach MLA and Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen, announced that the Manitoba government is providing more than $200,000 in funding, including new ongoing support of $100,000, to the Bear Clan patrols serving Winnipeg neighbourhoods. The funding will support much-needed safety equipment and support long-term stability in the programs that will enhance vital front-line community safety initiatives that support community wellness and deter crime.
“The Bear Clan patrols have a strong reputation for being able to offer on-the-ground support, promote safety and deter crime,” said Goertzen. “It is important that we have both helping hands and watching eyes when it comes to preventing criminal activities. North America is seeing increases in crime and we will continue to take steps to address this challenge for the safety of Manitobans.”
New ongoing funding of $100,000 will be provided yearly to support long-term program sustainability and stability and to ensure resources are in place to continue street-level work in communities, the minister said. The programs and priorities will be established by the Bear Clan patrols in each community at the grass roots level.
In addition, the Bear Clan patrols, who operate community safety patrols in five Winnipeg neighbourhoods, are receiving over $100,000 from the Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund to purchase safety equipment and other supplies for its volunteers including high-visibility vests, puncture-resistant gloves, flashlights and multi-tool pocket knives. The funding will also be used to purchase first aid kits, automated external defibrillators, naloxone and supplies that will support search activities.
“We are so happy to receive this funding,” said Kevin Walker, executive director, Bear Clan Patrol Inc. “It will allow us to continue to provide services like first aid to our community members while keeping our volunteer patrol members safe. This funding provides us with essential equipment, which we require to continue to operate in a safe and professional way.”
For more information about criminal property forfeiture, visit gov.mb.ca.
