Niagara Region approves new Community Safety and Well-Being Plan

June 27, 2025

Niagara Region has approved its new plan that will guide the focus and community priorities for our community safety and well-being over the next five years. The Community Safety and Well-Being Plan (the Plan), endorsed by Regional Council at its June 26 meeting, was developed in partnership with the Niagara Regional Police Service and over 75 community organizations, with input from more than 2,000 individuals across Niagara.

Grounded in collaboration, the Plan aims to address the root causes of complex social issues through a multi-sectoral approach. It identifies four priority areas for action:

Mental Health and Addictions
Homelessness and Basic Needs
Gender-based Violence
Community Safety

Under the Police Services Act, all municipalities in Ontario are required to develop and adopt a community safety and well-being plan, and to update it every five years.

“Creating a plan to advance safety and well-being in Niagara requires a thoughtful, united effort and input that has been shaped by the voices and insights of our community,” said Regional Chair Jim Bradley. “The strength of our new Community Safety and Well-Being Plan lies in that collaboration. It reflects our shared commitment to building a Niagara where everyone feels safe, supported, and has the opportunity to thrive. I want to thank all those who contributed to this important work, helping to shape a plan that will guide and unite us in this goal over the next five years.”

The new plan builds on the foundation of Niagara’s first Community Safety and Well-Being Plan, launched in 2021. The updated plan reflects the progress made and lessons learned over the past four years, while responding to the evolving needs of the community. It emphasizes the importance of continued collaboration, evidence-based action and community voice in shaping a safer, healthier Niagara.

“The Niagara Regional Police Service is proud to stand alongside our community partners in advancing this important work,” said Niagara Regional Police Service Chief Bill Fordy “This plan provides a foundation for addressing some of Niagara’s most pressing challenges. These are not issues any one organization can solve alone, it will take all of us working together. While there is still much work ahead, I am confident that through continued partnership, we can work towards a safer and healthier Niagara for everyone.”

Since the introduction of its first plan, Niagara has made measurable progress toward its goals, including:

Expanding Niagara’s Situation Tables to respond to individuals with complex needs
Investing over $24 million in community-based supports
Launching the Niagara Well-Being Tool to highlight local data and inform planning
Establishing the youth Gun and Gang Prevention Strategy funding nine local youth serving agencies

For more information about the Plan and how to get involved, visit the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan on Niagara Region’s website.

Media contact

Janet Rose
Senior Communications Specialist
Niagara Region
289-668-3629
janet.rose@niagararegion.ca