Reinvigorating Neighbourhood Watch

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 10/05/2023 (905 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Community safety remains a top priority in Old Kildonan. On April 19, I hosted a Neighbourhood Watch program presentation at Maples Collegiate in collaboration with the Winnipeg Police Service community relations division. Const. Garnie McIntyre’s presentation focused on rebranding and revitalizing Neighbourhood Watch, which provides people with tools to increase community awareness, best crime reporting practices, and offers crime deterrent strategies.

The meeting was well-attended, with strong representation from 204 Volunteers, Northwest Bear Clan Patrol, Elwick Village Resource Centre, Aurora Neighbourhood Watch, Amber Trails/Gates Neighbourhood Watch and Khalsa Aid, all of whom were on hand to lend support and share information.

There was also an engaging question-and-answer session, during which residents had an opportunity to ask about specific areas of interest. Long-term area resident Bill Harrow said, “it was an informative presentation, giving us the tools to help make our community safer.”

Many decades ago, when I moved into my neighbourhood, my family didn’t know anyone. We soon met people and established friendships, allowing us to look out for one another, helping to build a thriving and vibrant community. It’s important everyone has this opportunity, so I was happy to get residents together for this important discussion on public safety.

Few people can keep a constant watchful eye on their homes and property. Neighbourhood Watch’s main goal is to prevent crime before it starts, report suspicious activity and help provide a sense of security by encouraging neighbours to keep an eye on each other’s property.

This is a community-run program, supported by the Winnipeg Police Service through the active participation of citizens like you. It also helps co-ordinate the efforts of the police and community groups in tracking down criminals.

The Winnipeg Police Service offers a webpage – winnipeg.ca/crimeprevention – where you can determine if there is a Neighbourhood Watch block captain on your street. If there is and you are not yet connected to your captain, they can connect you

If there is no block captain for your area, you can volunteer to take on that role yourself. To help, the Police Service provides new block captains with necessary supports and information. You’re always welcome to contact my office for additional support.

Together, we can continue to remind ourselves of the value of knowing our neighbours, thereby building a safer community.