Crime Stoppers Grey Bruce Logo (Image provided by Crime Stoppers Grey Bruce)
The Chairman of Crime Stoppers Grey Bruce says the organization is in need of funding and volunteers if they wish to continue to operate.
Peter Reid says the charity organization has been fighting against a lack of funding for several years, and if they want to continue to service the region, they need to raise at least $30,000.
“We are at the point where our reserves are just about depleted and by the end of this fiscal year, we will be out of cash,” says Reid. “We actually have an Annual General Meeting on Sept. 9, at which point we will be voting whether the program continues or not in Grey Bruce.”
He says if each municipality were to contribute about $2,500, they would be able to operate, but the organization only has enough funding to make it to the end of March, 2025.
“We have asked that over a number of years and some have been generous and supported us and others not,” says Reid.
Crime Stoppers recently sent a letter out in July to policing service boards across the region as well as various municipalities requesting funding.
“The biggest issue we are having is with the municipalities that are policed by the OPP,” says Reid.
He says he does not know why this is the case, but finds the municipalities which have their own police service like Owen Sound, Saugeen Shores and Hanover tend to be more supportive of the organization.
He adds they are in need of volunteers with fundraising and organizational experience as the board is now down to seven members, whereas they are allowed to have up to 15.
“I have been the chair for a number of years now and it’s time for some fresh blood at the helm,” says Reid.
Crime Stoppers Grey Bruce is planning on hosting its annual fundraising classic car tour and show this September. More details can be found on its website here.
People interested in supporting the organization can visit the website or call 519-371-6078.