SURREY Crime Prevention Society on Tuesday said it is “deeply dismayed” by Surrey City Council’s decision to deny it funding.
The society’s president, Mani Deol-Fallon, said in a press statement: “Over the years, successive administrations have recognized the immense value of supporting the youth in our community. Surrey Crime Prevention Society has been a steadfast advocate, nurturing thousands of youth volunteers through various programs such as mentorship, Civic Pride, Traffic Safety, Community Safety Tours, and Citizens Community Watch. These programs not only impart valuable skills but also have served as stepping stones for many youths towards careers in law enforcement, border protection and other fields.”
She added: “The sudden announcement of a $330,000 shortfall created by the City of Surrey is both unexpected and concerning. We had relied on this funding to sustain our operations through 2024, and it is distressing to learn of this shortfall four months into the year.”
Deol-Fallon noted: “The direct impact of this funding shortfall on Surrey’s youth, families, and the community at large is undeniably real. Without the necessary resources, our ability to provide essential programs and support to young people will be severely compromised. This could result in fewer opportunities for skill development, mentorship, and community engagement, ultimately hindering the growth and well-being of our youth. Additionally, the ripple effect extends to families who rely on these programs for guidance and support in raising their children in a safe and nurturing environment. The broader community will also feel the repercussions, as the absence of proactive crime prevention measures may lead to increased challenges in maintaining public safety and cohesion. It is imperative that we address this shortfall swiftly and effectively to mitigate the adverse consequences it poses to our city’s future.”
The president also pointed out: “Furthermore, the timing of this funding cut, coming just over a month before our 40th Anniversary Gala, adds insult to injury. This event was meant to celebrate four decades of community empowerment and collaboration, yet it now serves as a stark reminder of the challenges we face in sustaining our mission. Nevertheless, we remain committed to our cause and will work tirelessly to find alternative sources of funding and support. We call upon our community partners, stakeholders, and allies to join us in this endeavour, as together, we can overcome this setback and continue making a positive impact on the lives of Surrey’s youth and citizens.”
Surrey Crime Prevention Society supports youth between the ages of 15-29, offering them an opportunity to give back to their community while developing skills and experiences they can use in future career opportunities. There are four pillars under this program: LIFT High School Work Experience Program, Mentorship Program for Vulnerable Youth, Traffic Safety Program, and Community Safety Tours. Each program offers youth a chance to work in partnership with local schools, the City of Surrey, local police agencies, the Ministry of Children and Family Development, and other organizations committed to a safer community in Surrey.
Youth in these programs develop strong skills including communication, time management, note-taking and report writing, and mentorship of others, and receive extensive training to ensure their experience is superior. They are provided guidance in developing an understanding of the importance of civic pride and making positive choices in their lives. Engaging youth in our programs provides them with diverse experiences.
Deol-Fallon said: “Currently, we have over 500 volunteers representing the diverse cultural population in Surrey who are interested in pursuing careers in public safety. Through collaboration with our many community partners, our volunteers have secured careers in a variety of police agencies, CBSA, as parole officers, become lawyers, crime analysts, youth counsellors, business professionals in different capacities, and many more.”
