The Probation Outreach Program assists individuals (18 years or older) on probation to meet legal orders and planning under the direction of the Probation Officer. All referrals for Probation Outreach Program are received from BC Community Corrections.

Additionally, working with the client the Probation Outreach Program identifies and works to address the needs of the client.

The objective of the Probation Outreach Program is to reduce reoffending by providing support and connection to resources to assist the client to reintegrate.

“The John Howard Probation Outreach program is an invaluable service for our probation clients. Many individuals are overwhelmed by multiple issues when they become involved in the criminal justice system and often they are unsure where or how to start rebuilding the lives. The JHS Outreach person has provided consistent advocacy and support for our clients with multi-barriers of homelessness, mental health & addictions, in need of income assistance or disability applications. Creating prosocial community supports is key for these individuals as they are often isolated and lack connection to services.”

Michelle Hallgren, Probation Officer, Kelowna Community Corrections

Probation Outreach provides support and assistance including:

• Supporting individuals in seeking employment;
• Assisting individuals to look for and acquire affordable housing;
• Connecting to local leisure and community resources, such as the Parkinson Rec. Centre or H2O;
• Transportation assistance to ensure compliance at meeting important appointments, including Probation Appointments; as well as access to bus tickets;
• Assisting individuals with activities of daily living such as budgeting and time management.

The Probation Outreach program is funded and works in partnership with the BC Ministry of Justice.