The Bear Clan Patrol is shown in this 2018 file photo. (TWITTER)
A community patrol group that found resounding success in Winnipeg is expanding to Portage la Prairie.
The Bear Clan Patrol is receiving $50,000 in funding to extend its efforts of community safety and wellness.
“When it comes to crime prevention, community engagement is critical,” said Assistant Commissioner Jane MacLatchy, commanding officer of the Manitoba RCMP.
“The more people that are dedicated to safer communities and being a visible presence, the better. Partnerships with community crime prevention groups, such as the Bear Clan Patrol, are critical for the RCMP. These groups are a valuable resource to our officers.”
Portage la Prairie RCMP will receive $31,000 from the province to support its partnership with the new Bear Clan group.
The funding will be used to train patrol members on first aid, mental health first aid, cultural sensitivity and the use of naloxone. It will also stock supplies and equipment used by the group, such as sharps disposal units, notebooks, flashlights, first aid kits, radios and outerwear.
The Community Foundation of Portage and District is also contributing $20,000 to the Bear Clan for additional assistance.
The founding Winnipeg chapter of the Bear Clan Patrol received more than $126,000 from the province last year.
