Province funds new initiatives to fight human trafficking and mental health crises in North Bay

The Province is providing nearly $850,000 to support targeted police initiatives in North Bay focused on human trafficking, mental health crises, and community engagement.

The money goes to the North Bay Police Service Board, supporting the development of three projects.

• $328,050 to the Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Investigations Unit, to proactively identify, investigate, and disrupt criminal networks involved in the trafficking and exploitation of vulnerable persons, particularly youth.
• $309,247 to the Community Engagement Enhancement, to increase police visibility, strengthen relationships, and promote safety through proactive outreach.
• $206,000 to the Community Mental Health Support Enhancement Project, supporting partnership initiatives aimed at improving community safety and well-being through effective, collaborative crisis response.

Police Board Chair Rich Stivrins says the money will have a substantial impact on the North Bay Police Service.

“The grant directly and immediately provides support and resources to address local priorities, from protecting at-risk youth to enhancing public safety and trust, while also helping to rebuild relationships with communities affected by poverty, substance use, mental health challenges, discrimination, and social disconnection.”

Chief Daryl Longworth says it will have a meaningful impact on public safety in North Bay.

“The grant will support seven members of our service, including two community engagement officers, two mobile crisis officers, a school liaison officer, a human trafficking officer, and an internet child exploitation officer. This initiative aims to protect vulnerable populations, including our youth, respond compassionately to residents in crisis, and provide cost-effective early prevention strategies.”

“The Community Safety and Policing Grant Program will provide the North Bay Police Service Board with targeted funding to support projects addressing sexual violence and harassment, human trafficking, exploitation, mental health, addictions, and more,” added MPP Vic Fedeli.