Launched in 2018 with the support of the North Bay Police Service, Nipissing Transition House and the Victim Witness Assistance Program, Chewie is used to ground people who are agitated or anxious, provide emotional support to persons in crisis, is non-threatening, reduces fear/anxiety in children, persons with disabilities and students, helps reduce blood pressure and anxiety for victims and is a goodwill ambassador for VSND and local police.
Chewie, along with his handler, routinely provide trauma support to children and youth who have been victimized or witnesses to crime. They meet with young victims in a variety of settings including the Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, courtrooms, police stations, shelters and other community programs. His ability to support victims has been highly praised and demand for his services has grown.
Grace Doiron, Club President, commented “When the club was approached by Victim Services, we did not hesitate to step in. Our club’s main focus continues to be supporting children and youth with special needs, and that now includes those who have been traumatized”.Victim Services of Nipissing District Backgrounder
