The heads of two inner-city youth programs, Rossbrook House and CommUNITY204, have noticed an upward trend in youth violence in recent years and believe more prevention measures are necessary. Rossbrook House, a safe haven for youth in Winnipeg’s Centennial neighborhood since 1976, has observed an increase in drug use among youth, leading some to feel the need to carry weapons for protection. The executive director, Patty Mainville, highlights the impact of drugs spilling out into the community and the resulting rise in violent incidents. The Winnipeg Police Service’s 2023 Statistical Report shows a decrease in youth crimes from 2018 to 2021, but a subsequent increase in 2023, with a higher proportion of violent crimes compared to 2018.
Daniel Hidalgo, founder and executive director of CommUNITY204, also recognizes the upward trend in youth violence and believes it is preventable. Drawing from his own experiences growing up in the foster care system, Hidalgo stresses the importance of providing resources and support to youth to guide them towards positive choices. He believes poverty and lack of resources are factors contributing to youth involvement in crime and emphasizes the simplicity of prevention efforts. CommUNITY204 serves around 250 youth regularly and focuses on addressing the complex issues of poverty, crime, and addictions through proactive programming.
Both Mainville and Hidalgo emphasize the need for dedicated investment in addressing youth violence and preventing future incidents. They agree that youth are not inherently bad and that the key to reducing crime lies in providing support, resources, and opportunities for young people. Mainville points out the importance of investing in programs that can help steer youth away from a life of crime and violence, while Hidalgo highlights the critical role of early intervention and prevention strategies in mitigating the impact of poverty and lack of resources on youth outcomes. By addressing the root causes of youth violence and investing in prevention measures, both organizations aim to contribute to a safer and more supportive environment for young people in Winnipeg.
In conclusion, the rise in youth violence observed by Rossbrook House and CommUNITY204 underscores the need for targeted interventions and support for at-risk youth in Winnipeg. The efforts of these organizations in providing resources, programming, and guidance to young people demonstrate a commitment to preventing youth crime and promoting positive outcomes. By addressing the underlying factors that contribute to violence, poverty, and lack of resources, Mainville and Hidalgo advocate for a comprehensive approach to reducing youth violence and creating a safer community for all. Continued investment and collaboration in youth programming and support services are essential to safeguarding the well-being and future of the next generation.
