Our Mission Statement.
Niagara Victim Crisis Support Service (NVCSS) is a dynamic organization whose dedicated volunteer crisis responders respond to referral from Niagara Regional emergency services by offering immediate, vital short-term, confidential support to the ever changing needs of victims.
How do we fit into the picture?
We all face loss due to crime, disaster or tragedy at one point in our lives. No one is immune to uncontrollable circumstances which can leave victims, families, friends and even the community around them in a state of turmoil.
Sudden death, fire, sexual or emotional abuse, homicide, suicide or theft can happen to us or our loved ones at any moment. With crime and tragedy come many losses; the loss of finances, property, personal safety, loss of life, of privacy and loss of control. There may be physical injury or pending harm. The most devastating of all losses is the emotional pain and distress that such a traumatic event causes. When it does, we are often overcome with grief, shock, sadness, fear and confusion.
But, you are not alone. A referral from one of our exceptional front-line Emergency services will connect you with a caring support team of crisis responders to help you deal with the impact of tragedy or crime. The police need to focus on taking statements, collecting evidence and determining the facts of the situation. In order to allow them to do their job well, NVCSS is available to provide the practical and emotional support to the victims and/or their families.
Who we are.
The family of over 100 volunteer crisis responders is coordinated by a small team of full time employees who have been graciously provided space within the Niagara Regional Police Services main building in St. Catharines. Fully dedicated to the concept of NVCSS, all are fully certified and trained as volunteers. This team of individuals coordinates the volunteers, administrates the appropriate paperwork and funding, as well as managing the Program in coordination with other communities in the Province. The safety of our Volunteers is also of paramount concern to our staff.
