Youth Help Line
On May 14, 2009 Abbotsford Police Chief Bob Rich led a press conference to address the community concerns around youth involvement in gang activity. A key component of the Chief’s message was that some of Abbotsford’s youth involved in gang activity and the drug trade were in significant danger. This was worthy of a public warning. The message to them was that they must speak to a parent, a teacher, a counselor, a coach or a police officer to change the direction of their lives.
The Abbotsford Police Department, the City of Abbotsford, and the Abbotsford School District established a Youth Help Line: 604-864-4787 to help kids who wanted out. Parents, friends and youth involved in these activities were encouraged to call the number to break free of circumstances that put them at risk.
The same community partners had also distributed a letter signed by the Police Chief, the Mayor, and the Chair of the Abbotsford Board of Education advising parents and others of this significant announcement. A flyer was also distributed in conjunction with the letter which included Help Line contact information.
Additional information and links were available on the City of Abbotsford, Abbotsford School District, and Abbotsford Police Department websites.
