In a partnership initiative put forth through the federal Crime Prevention Action Fund, the City of Kamloops and Interior Community Services are working together in our community with a new Mobile Crisis Outreach Response team. This collaboration marks a significant step in diverting youth-involved crisis situations away from law enforcement.

The Mobile Crisis Outreach Response team is a five-year multi-sectoral direct intervention project targeted at youth aged 26 and under and will operate until summer 2028. This team, consisting of a Community Services Officer and an Interior Community Services outreach worker, will be on duty Tuesday through Saturday from 4:00 pm to midnight.

In the evenings, the Mobile Crisis Outreach Response team, led by Interior Community Services and Community Services Officers, continues establishing and maintaining connections with at-risk youths. Through this outreach effort, existing and new youths are made aware of and encouraged to use the comprehensive support services available through Interior Community Services, including the drop-in centre at 408 Seymour Street.

During daytime hours, Interior Community Services offers essential amenities to at-risk youths at their office and drop-in centre located at 408 Seymour Street, including laundry facilities, showers, clothing, computer access, and food provisions. Interior Community Services also operates the Kamloops Youth Shelter, which offers daytime supports of food, laundry, shower, harm reduction supplies, and a safe place to sleep for youths aged 19 and under.

Youths, parents, and caregivers looking for more information about the Mobile Crisis Outreach Response team and the services provided by Interior Community Services can phone 250-374-7435 or phone 778-470-0991 for information on the Kamloops Youth Shelter.

During evening hours, calls for service can be reported to 250-828-3409. If there is a threat to a person or an emergency, residents are encouraged to call 911.