The City of Montreal announces the creation of a support telephone line for families who are concerned about a loved one who may be involved in incidents of armed violence.
“In the last few months, I have met many parents who have told me that they feel powerless in the face of violent situations that their children may experience,” said Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante in the press release released Wednesday to announce the initiative. “I am very proud to present today our response to this sentiment shared by many, which will serve as a benchmark for seeking help. »
The Center for the Prevention of Radicalization Leading to Violence (CPRMV) will set up the service this spring, thanks to funding of $800,000 from the City for the next two years.
It will offer personalized support through qualified workers available seven days a week to meet the specific needs of citizens and refer them to the appropriate help. If necessary, this service can also offer collective support, in particular by setting up support groups.
“This is a very good initiative aimed at reaching those who are not talked about enough during incidents of violence, namely the parents of these young people. They need help and listening, and a line like this can provide them with crucial support at a particularly difficult time in their lives,” said René-André Brisebois, professional coordinator at the Institut universitaire jeunes en distress. (IUJD) of the CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l’Île-de-Montréal.
“We are convinced that this line and the promotion of the resources available to counter armed violence will be a significant complement in the prevention of this type of violence and in improving the feeling of security”, underlined Yanick Galan, director of the community center Lighthouse.