All About Us
 Victim Services, District of Parry Sound
Assistance and Referral Service





 
 
Who is a Victim?
Anyone whose life has been affected by trauma, tragedy or disaster,
regardless of severity.

Someone whose personal rights have been violated by criminal, violent
or aggressive acts.

Family and friends of persons who have been injured or killed as a result
of a serious accident or as a result of crime.

Someone who has viewed a violent or traumatic incident.

What is a Crisis?
A crisis can be described as a predicament or occurrence that causes distress.
Crisis can occur at any time causing such feelings as fear, rage, isolation and
confusion. Crisis can invoke mental anguish and physical distress.

Trained staff and volunteer crises support workers are available 24/7 to provide
much needed emotional support and practical assistance to help victims deal
with their unique situation.

What is VCARS?
VCARS or Victim Crisis Assistance and Referral Services are community response
programs that provide immediate, short term crisis intervention services to
persons affected by crime, tragedy and disaster.

VCARS programs offer a variety of crisis intervention services to persons
affected by crime, tragedy and disaster 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days
a year.

VCARs teams volunteer crises responders provide emotional support, practical assistance and an information and referral program on-site or by telephone.

VCARS is an integral part of a continuum of programs and services that addresses
clients' needs from the time of victimization to post-sentencing.

VCARS programs are volunteer driven, working in partnership with police and other
emergency service personnel.

VCARS porgrams are delivered through not-for-profit, charitable organizations,
each governed by a community Board of Directors.

How VCARS Can Assist?
  • Help victims cope with the impact of a traumatic event

  • Help victims regain a sense of personal control

  • Help victims return their lives to a desired degree of stability

  • Provide an opportunity for victims to talk

  • Validate emotions and reactions

  • Assist victims in their community until natural support network arrives

  • Disseminate information about available resources\services, appropriate to the situation
  • Reduce possibility of re-victimization

  • Identify option/choices at a time when victims may need guidance/direction

  • Ensure victims receive and will continue to receive support and assistance
  • Advocate on victim's behalf

  • Assist police and other emergency service responders

  • Provide opportunities for community members to help others in their own community
 
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