Support Young People This Holiday Season!

This holiday season, we invite you to make a difference in the lives of children and youth in our community, as well as their families, as they journey through the criminal justice system in Waterloo Region, Guelph and Wellington County.

Did you know that…

• more than twice a day a young person finds the courage to tell someone that they have experienced abuse?
• more than 10 young people become victims or witnesses of crime each week?
• this year we expect to help more than 1,400 young people and their families!

These children and youth are in your neighbourhood and may be in your family. 

With a gift to the Child Witness Centre you will ensure that these children and youth have someone to walk the journey with them.  They will receive information and support tailored to meet their individual needs as they and their families journey through the criminal justice process.

On average it costs $1,000 to support a young person through a criminal investigation or through criminal court.  Your gift will foster healing, hope and wellbeing during this very difficult time, empowering children and youth who have been victimized by violent and abusive crimes towards stronger futures.  

“When a child decides to tell someone that they are being abused, they are the ones who see their fears about the consequences of telling often come true.  They are the ones who must tell their experience to strangers.  While we can’t take away the painful process that is the harsh reality of being a child victim, we can walk with them, helping them and their family endure and heal.”   Meagan Copland, Child and Youth Advocate Program Manager

We live in a dynamic and generous community. With only 20% of our funding from government sources and demand for our services growing, we must rely on your generosity to help the most vulnerable to have a voice.  Every dollar counts!

Thank you for considering a gift to support these young people as part of your holiday giving.  Your impact will be felt for years to come and you will be walking with us, helping to create a community where children and youth are safe, valued and heard.