Premier Wab Kinew announced today that the Manitoba government is implementing a comprehensive downtown safety action plan to enhance public safety and well-being in Winnipeg. The plan is a response to the ideas and concerns shared by local people and businesses about safety in the downtown area.
The government has earmarked nearly $1.5 million in 2024-25 to support initiatives that form the action plan. These initiatives include expanded support for the Downtown Community Safety Partnership (DCSP), increased support for mental health training for downtown partners, and the establishment of a sobering centre in N’Dinawemak – Our Relatives’ Place.
The DCSP will receive $435,672 this summer to increase its visibility downtown. This funding will be bolstered by partnerships with the Mayor of Winnipeg’s office, contributing $100,000, and Downtown Winnipeg BIZ, contributing $50,000.
The sobering centre at 190 Disraeli Fwy will receive up to $1,063,000. The funding will support new health and mental health positions at the centre, as well as associated capital improvements. The centre is expected to immediately begin providing services, including case management, health system navigation, and paramedic services. Services will be scaled up as renovations are completed.
The DCSP has also introduced a new integrated system with the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) that allows the two organizations to co-ordinate calls through shared radio systems and computer-aided dispatch. This first-of-its-kind partnership in Canada between an outreach organization and an emergency service provider allows the two organizations to communicate on the same radio frequency to dispatch the right response at the right time.
The downtown safety action plan builds on feedback received at the public safety summit hosted by the Manitoba government in April. The summit was attended by over 300 individuals representing youth advocates, the business community, law enforcement, mental health professions, and more.
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