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Ms. Sandy Biggerstaff, Executive Director, and Mr.
Kyle Tiney, Director of Development and Communications of the Crisis
Intervention and Suicide Prevention Centre of BC, appeared before the
Committee providing an overview of services and programs, as well as the
impact the Centre has in the region.
Ms. Biggerstaff advised that the
Crisis Centre has operated since 1969, and provides 24/7 free support to
youth, adults and seniors.
Mr. Tiney noted that each year, the
Centre provides support to approximately 5,000 to 7,000 Burnaby residents.
The Crisis Centre also organizes workshops on suicide awareness, self-care,
mindfulness, etc.
Ms. Biggerstaff noted that the
Crisis Centre utilizes a holistic approach to suicide prevention in the
communities, always working to further their mandate of empowering individuals
to help themselves and others in times of distress. Each year, Youth
Distress Services are accessed by thousands of Burnaby residents who are
seeking targeted, non-judgmental youth support by highly trained volunteers,
as well as informative resources regarding suicide prevention. By remaining
adaptive to specific needs such as this and striving to create suicide-safer
communities in Burnaby and beyond, the Centre is able to break down stigma
surrounding suicide, showing youth they are not alone.
In conclusion, the speaker noted
that 24% of their funding is received from the Vancouver Coastal Health, and
the rest of the funding is received from the City of Vancouver, United Way,
gaming funds, different foundations, and private donations. The Crisis
Centre is seeking a grant in support of the services provided to Burnaby residents.
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