The Kamloops Interagency Supports Table has officially launched—a new collaborative initiative to provide timely, coordinated assistance to individuals and families facing elevated risk. Built on the proven Situation Table model, this confidential, rapid-response approach connects people to critical services before harm can occur.

The Kamloops Interagency Supports Table brings together front-line professionals from the health, education, social services, housing, and policing sectors to address situations of acutely elevated risk—where harm is likely without immediate action. The approach focuses on rapid, coordinated intervention within 24 to 48 hours, using existing community resources to prevent crises before they occur.

Locally, 23 organizations and agencies, represented by more than 65 trained professionals, have completed extensive online and in-person training to ensure they can respond effectively and respectfully within their existing roles. Together, they provide a wide range of supports—from youth and family services to seniors and women fleeing violence supports—ensuring timely help for those at greatest risk.

Operating under strict confidentiality and chaired by the City of Kamloops, the Kamloops Interagency Supports Table uses a risk-driven, multi-agency approach to identify and address complex situations. Only de-identified data is recorded, helping track community risk trends and inform local policy.

This model offers significant benefits:

• faster access to supports by reducing barriers
• cross-sector collaboration to address cumulative risk factors
• a shift from incident-driven to preventative intervention

“We know there’s a growing need to work together in a more proactive way to keep people safe and healthy,” said Karina Laitres, the City’s Social Development and Housing Supervisor. “By working together at this table, we can step in earlier and make sure people get the help they need before things get worse.”

This initiative became a reality due in part to advocacy by Kamloops City Council, which sought provincial funding to support the training required to launch the Kamloops Interagency Supports Table. The combined investment of time and resources from the Province, local agencies, and the City demonstrates a strong community commitment to improving safety and well-being in Kamloops.