This week has been devoted by the City of Swift Current to all people who have been affected by crime and survived criminal acts.

During last night's council meeting, there was a proclamation to recognize May 15 through May 21 as Victims and Survivors of Crime Week.

Presenting to the city council was Carrie Davis, program coordinator for Victim Services Southwest, an organization that has been operating out of the Swift Current area since 1992 and has spread over those years to over 40 communities in the southwest.

"We collaborate every day with various groups and agencies throughout the southwest to assist victims in the immediate aftermath of a crime or tragedy," explained Davis. "Our volunteers are essential to our program and provide the majority of direct services which has taken a lot of creativity during a global pandemic."

Her team of volunteers is made up of 25 individuals who have been certified and trained to provide support to those who have been affected by a criminal act, passing RCMP security clearance before working with victims.

Previously, it could take more than six months for a volunteer to be fully certified and ready to help people. These days, that time has been drastically reduced to two months.

"A person is never expecting to become a victim of crime or traumatic event," stated Davis. "We are there to assist when the unexpected happens, whether it's to provide information about the court process after criminal charges or emotional support after the sudden death of a loved one."

If you would like to inquire about joining, you can call your local RCMP detachment and ask to be put in contact with Victim Services.