Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario Program (VCAO)

VCAO or Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario is a community response program that provides immediate, short-term crisis intervention services to persons affected by crime, tragedy and disaster. VCAO 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.

VCAO teams of trained staff and volunteer crisis responders provide emotional support, practical assistance and an information and referrals on-site or by telephone.

WHO IS A VICTIM?

Someone whose life has been affected by crime, tragedy or disaster.

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

Someone who has viewed a violent or traumatic incident.

These services are designed to meet the most immediate needs of victims, who may need:

• The immediate response of someone being there to support them in a time of crisis.
• Someone to speak to about ways to ensure their safety, immediate and in the future.
• Someone who has time to listen and is empathetic.
• Assistance with identifying options and appropriate community resources that will help with the next steps.