Manitoba to increase community safety with investment in Bear Clan patrols

The Manitoba government has invested additional funds to try and create better safety in communities around the province.

The province will be providing $200,000 plus a yearly $100,000 in funding to the Bear Clan patrols, which will provide support for long-term programs and additional resources for work in communities.

“$100,000 is very significant. It takes the stress off that we are going through this time of the year. We tend to get most of our funding at the beginning and then as you get towards the end, you start to look for the next grant operation to keep going,” said Brian Chrupalo, Treasurer, Bear Clan Patrol.

Chrupalo says they have around 500 people a day lining up for food at their door. Chrupalo says even with donated food, the food program they run costs over $200,000 per year to operate… a demand that continues to rise.

“The Bear Clan patrols have a strong reputation for being able to offer on-the-ground support, promote safety and deter crime,” said Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen. “It is important that we have both helping hands and watching eyes when it comes to preventing criminal activities. North America is seeing increases in crime and we will continue to take steps to address this challenge for the safety of Manitobans.”

The province will also be investing $100,000 in the Bear Clan patrols that operate in some Winnipeg neighbourhoods.

“We’re operating in five different areas now and these funds will go a long way in helping us to continue to maintain those supports, to be a visible presence in the streets and to really start building partnerships and relationships,” explained Frank Parkes, Board Member, Bear Clan Patrol.

The funding is dedicated to new equipment including, first aid kits, puncture-resistant gloves, naloxone and multi-tools.

“We are so happy to receive this funding,” said Kevin Walker, executive director, Bear Clan Patrol Inc. “It will allow us to continue to provide services like first aid to our community members while keeping our volunteer patrol members safe. This funding provides us with essential equipment, which we require to continue to operate in a safe and professional way.”

-With files from Alex Karpa