Services & Programs

Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario Program

The Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario (VCAO) Program provides support for individuals affected by crime and tragic circumstance that is client-centered and culturally competent. 

Program Objectives

  • Provide early assistance and support, information and referrals to individuals affected by crime and tragic circumstances, both in-person or remotely
  • Reduce the likelihood of further harm by helping a client identify and address safety issues
  • Help clients identify their needs and concerns and develop strategies to address them

Services and Supports

  • Practical assistance 
  • Needs assessment 
  • Referrals to relevant community and government support services
  • Support to assess eligibility and apply to the Victim Quick Response Program+ (VQRP+)
  • Safety planning
  • Provision of information
  • Enhanced support
  • Community support sessions
  • Client follow-up

Victim Quick Response Program (VQRP+)

VQRP+ provides support to victims of violent crime in the province of Ontario who require immediate assistance that cannot be obtained through other sources. VQRP+ aims to provide assistance to the victims in the immediate aftermath of a violent crime; lessening the impact of violent crime through immediate support services; and to increase the immediate safety of victims. Some examples of incidents that may be eligible for VQRP+ include:

  • Attempt to commit murder
  • Child abuse
  • Criminal harassment
  • Elder abuse
  • Hate crime
  • Historical child sexual abuse (eligible for counseling or traditional Indigenous health related services only)
  • Homicide
  • Human trafficking
  • Intimate partner violence
  • Non-consensual distribution of intimate images
  • Sexual assault
  • Serious assault
  • Voyeurism