Safety in Parkdale · 27 October 2006, 17:08 by Walt Jarsky
There are various factors that contribute to community safety in Parkdale. The graphic below illustrates these factors.
I also recognize there are interrelated causes that contribute to crime.
One can distinguish between pre-existing conditions and precipitating factors which result in criminal acts. Marginal employment, low income, inadequate support systems, and addictions are a few of the possible pre-existing conditions. The loss of a job or a breakdown in health or a relationship are examples of factors that could precipitate a criminal act.
When considering all the factors that contribute to a safe community there are three general components:
- service programs (recreational opportunities, conflict mediation, crisis intervention, anti-violence and anger management programs and various aids to personal development),
- community development (the Parkdale Residents Association, the Parkdale Neighbourhood Council and other parallel projects in our community), and
- policing (public presence and enforcement interventions).
These thoughts have been developed during my participation in the Parkdale Resident Association Safety Committee. For further information: www.toronto.ca/safety and www.waltjarsky.net.
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