Kamloops to receive funding for gang-prevention programs

Mar 12, 2019 | 2:08 PM

KAMLOOPS — A million-dollar investment for select BC communities — including Kamloops — is aiming to help at-risk kids get off the path to gun and gang violence.

In a news release, the provincial government says the $1.12 million investment supports the new Expect Respect and a Safe Education (ERASE) school-based gang prevention program. It’s being offered in “priority communities” identified by police and safety experts as those that could benefit from additional gang prevention support.

The 12 communities include Kamloops, Kelowna, Prince George, and Williams Lake.

New training and intensive supports focused on gun and gang violence awareness and prevention will be created with the funding, the province states, along with resources for classroom teachers.

Funding will go to the BC School Superintendents Association, supporting districts in the 12 communities to partner with the Boys Club Network — a non-profit that works with school districts and community partners to create safe spaces for boys aged 12 to 19.

Through the partnership, after-school programs will be set up where they do not already exist, and new local secondary school elective courses will be created.

Gang prevention and awareness education and training sessions will also be held.