Investing in the Future of Peel: Funds to be Used for Community Programs and Services for At-Risk Youth.
February 11, 2023 – The Canadian federal government is taking action to combat the increasing problem of gun crime and gang violence in Brampton and Mississauga with a major investment of $8.1 million. The announcement was made by Canada’s Minister of Public Safety, Marco Mendicino, during a press conference at the Churchill Meadows Community Centre and Mattamy Sports Park in Mississauga’s west end.
The funding, taken from the Building Safer Communities Fund, will be allocated towards youth programs and services in Peel aimed at providing at-risk youth with the tools and support they need to avoid a life of crime. This initiative aligns with the concept of “upstream policing,” a proactive approach to preventing crime before it happens by fostering supportive communities with opportunities for growth and development.
Minister Mendicino emphasized the importance of addressing the rising gun crime and gang violence issue, as it places undue stress on front-line police officers and the 911 emergency call system. By providing ample community programs and services, young people can be set up for success in life and the causes of crime can be addressed before it occurs.
The number of 911 calls in Peel has increased by 75% in recent years, and both Brampton and Mississauga have seen a rise in gun crime and gang violence. In 2022, there were 15 murders in Mississauga and a combined 29 homicides investigated in Brampton and Mississauga by the Peel Regional Police.
This $8.1 million investment from the federal government is a critical step towards solving the root causes of gun crime and gang violence in Brampton and Mississauga. Mayor Patrick Brown stressed the importance of upstream policing and innovative solutions in addition to the 70 new police officers added to the Peel Regional Police this year.