WECYAC hosts discussion on Rising Youth Abuse and Crime in Windsor-Essex

The Windsor Essex Child/Youth Advocacy Centre, seen on May 16, 2024. (Chris Campbell/CTV News Windsor)

The topic of youth abuse and crime was the focus of an event held at Fogolar Furlan Club of Windsor Friday.

The key topic of the discussion was the trend of abuse rising for this demographic in our community.

The host organization - Windsor Essex Child/Youth Advocacy Centre (WECYAC) - is an organization that focuses helping youth who are under 18 years of age.

These children have suffered sexual abuse, physical abuse, sexual exploitation, and/or are victims of domestic violence or abuse.

WECYAC provides a safe space for children/youth to disclose abuse to trained professionals.

One key takeaway from the event — the demand for these critical services is rising post the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Nila Das is the executive director of WECYAC. Dr. Das is concerned about the growing numbers of clients who need urgent care – a concern that is in part, related to funding support.

“We rely on project-based funding to keep our organization going,” said Dr. Das. “That is one of the number one challenge I guess I face. I write a lot of grants to support our organization, and this is our annual, giving campaign happening. I would like the community to help us stand with us, support us.”