
North Simcoe Victim Services
~ Crisis Response, Caring Support ~
Downtown Orillia Fire Fund
Thank you to the many generous donors who have given in this time of tragedy in our Orillia community. 100% of these funds collected will be distributed directly to the victims.
If you are a direct victim of the Peter Street fire loss, you can apply for a granting of these funds through our community partner the Community Development Corporation of Orillia & Area (CDC), who has agreed to dispense the funds, by clicking on the logo below. This will take you to their website to find the information to apply for support.
As always, North Simcoe Victim Services are here for anyone who needs emotional and mental support by calling 705 325 5578 and one of our compassionate team members will answer any questions you may have.
Find Support
We Need Volunteers!
Find out how to help and make a real difference in people’s lives. We are always looking for volunteers. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for more information.
The North Simcoe Victims Services team is here for you 24/7, seven days a week, 365 days a year
We are committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity and inclusivity. We believe that every individual, regardless of their background, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or ability, deserves respect, support, and the opportunity to thrive. Our commitment to inclusivity is reflected in our policies, practices, and the services we provide, ensuring that all voices are heard, valued, and empowered within our community. Together, we are building a stronger, more equitable future for everyone we serve.
Strategic Priorities & Objectives
Providing caring and timely response to those in crisis.
Reducing the impact of crime and tragic circumstance.
Supporting resolutions.
The Board of North Simcoe Victim Services has been working together with First Responders, Volunteers, and Community Partners to identify the following 3 Strategic Priorities:
Strategic Priority #1
Strong Relationships
Strengthen relationships with community partners, first responders and volunteers
Strengthen partnerships and understanding of NSVS through increased communication with first responders, community partners and volunteers
Strategic Priority #2
Stewardship of Resources
Optimize human, financial and physical resources
Ensure the human, financial and physical resources available to NSVS are leveraged to their maximum possible potential
Strategic Priority #3
Quality Service Delivery
Provide targeted service support aligned with our clients needs.
We will provide each client with the highest quality service and support tailored to their unique individual needs enabling them to achieve the best possible outcome after their traumatic experience

25 Years of Service to the North Simcoe Community
(pictured here the past and current NSVS volunteers and community partners at our 25th Anniversary celebration at Bayside Restaurant)

Thank you to our funders for their generous support.




Support Advocate for Victim Empowerment
Our latest newsletter
Winter 2024 UPDATE
Click here to read our latest newsletter!
Fill out the form and subscribe for our latest updates.

Executive Director, Kim Kneeshaw
Kim has been with North Simcoe Victim Services since the beginning. In 1999 as well as becoming a Victim Crisis volunteer, she took on the role of Volunteer Coordinator.
In 2019 Kim became the Executive Director to lead our staff and volunteer team, to continue to serve the community with excellence.
To reach out to our Executive Director for inquiries or to book a presentation for your group, email exdir@ns-vs.com
Staff Directory
Development Director – Lynn Thomas
lynn@ns-vs.com – 705 826 1671
Client Services Coordinator – Mandy
clients@ns-vs.com – 705 325 5578
Volunteer Coordinator – Sherry
volunteers@ns-vs.com – 705 325 5578
Administrative Assistant – Christine
support@ns-vs.com – 705 325 5578
Learn more about NSVS
Click on the icons below to learn more about our organization – North Simcoe Victim Services
History
Learn about the history of NS-VS
Board of Directors
Meet the people working hard to help our community
What We Do
There’s a lot we can do to help–discover what we do.
How NSVS Works
Learn how the process works and how we can help.
Partners
We work closely with the community and partners.
Connect with us on Social Media
Thank you to @eclecticcafeorillia for supporting the victims of the devastating fire in downtown Orillia with a delicious and heartfelt dinner menu on Valentines Day 💝♥️
Thank you to the kind and generous donors who gave to the "Downtown Orillia Fire Fund" at the dinner. 100% of these funds be dispersed to the victims that apply through the Orillia Area CDC website (application will be available soon)
If you have any questions regarding the application process and the relief funding applicatble under the NSVS mandate, please contact Kim Kneeshaw exdir@ns-vs.com.
Questions regarding donations or receipting, please contact Lynn Thomas lynn@ns-vs.com
#orillia #community #giving #crisisresponse #caringsupport
📱 Cell Phone Donation Drive 📱
From February 1st to February 28th
We are excited to announce a Cell Phone Donation Drive to help those in our community who need it the most! Your donated, lightly used, unlocked, and factory-reset cell phones will support victims of crime, individuals facing tragic circumstances, and those with safety concerns.
Many of our clients find themselves in dangerous situations without access to a phone or the ability to contact emergency services. Your donation could be the difference between someone staying safe or being left vulnerable.🚨
✨ How You Can Help✨ :
Donate a working cell phone.
Ensure it is unlocked and factory reset.
For contact information, please see the post photo.
Drop-off Hours: Monday to Friday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thank you for your support in empowering and protecting our community! 🙏
#NorthSimcoeVictimServices #Donate #CommunitySupport #VictimServices #CellPhoneDrive #GiveBack #SafeCommunities
Meet our Volunteer of the Month - Louise!
"I am going into my third year of volunteering with North Simcoe Victim Services and I have to say it has been a rewarding experience. I’ve always wanted to help my community, and what better way to do that than to support others in crisis. Helping others during difficult times brings a deep sense of fulfilment. My role with Victims Services has also helped me grow as a person and in my job as a Security Guard. This role has strengthened my patience and understanding when dealing with mental health patients and approaching every situation with a reflective attitude in what they may be going through and feeling. I highly recommend volunteering with North Simcoe Victim Services to anyone interested in helping others!"
Thank you, Louise, for your time and commitment to North Simcoe Victim Services!
Today is 211 Day! 💙
National 211 Day is all about raising awareness of the vital services 211 provides. They connect you with the resources you need before reaching a crisis point. Whether you`re looking for mental health support, housing, food, or other community services, dialling or texting 2-1-1—or visiting 211Ontario.ca—can make a difference. A 211 Navigator will listen to your unique challenges and connect you with the right support.
#211Ontario #SupportWhenYouNeedIt #CommunityResources #MentalHealthSupport #ReachOut #211Day #NorthSimcoeVictimServices
🌟 A Heartfelt THANK YOU to MSR Landscaping! 🌟
We want to take a moment to express our deep gratitude to MSR Landscaping for their incredible snow removal service during such a critical time. ❄️ Your quick response and professionalism truly showcase your generosity and commitment to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.💙
We are so grateful for your kindness! 🙏
#CommunitySupport #ThankYou #MakingADifference #MSRLandscaping #NorthSimcoeVictimServices
🌟 Nonprofit Appreciation Week – February 10th-16th 🌟
This week, we celebrate the amazing work of nonprofit organizations and the dedicated individuals who make a difference in our communities. 🙌 From staff to volunteers, donors to supporters, the nonprofit sector plays a critical role in addressing social issues, empowering individuals, and creating positive change. 💙
👉 Let’s show our appreciation by:
1. Recognizing the incredible contributions of nonprofit workers
2. Supporting local nonprofits with donations, time, or resources
3. Spreading awareness about the impact of their work
Thank you to all the nonprofits working tirelessly to make the world a better place! 🌍💪
#NonprofitAppreciationWeek #NorthSimcoeVictimServices #ThankYouNonprofits #CommunityImpact #SupportLocal #MakeADifference #NonprofitLove
UPDATE: Information Night has been rescheduled for February 19th!
Mark your calendars for February 19th and join us for North Simcoe Victim Services’ Annual Information Night at the Orillia Fire Station!
Come learn about the vital work we do, the positive impact we have on the community, and how you can get involved as a Crisis Responder Volunteer. We’ll be at the Orillia Fire Station (500 Gill Street) from 6:30 to 8:30 PM, with plenty of refreshments, valuable information, and all your questions answered.
This is a great chance to see how you can be part of the important work we do for our community—don’t miss out!
Please note: NSVS Crisis Volunteers are required to live within the Orillia area to ensure a 30-minute response time when on call.
If you plan to attend, please RSVP with Sherry. Contact information is in the post photo.
Resources
Reach Out
Flexible Timelines

Donate
Our Programs
Victim Quick Response Program
North Simcoe Victim Services (NSVS) provides crisis intervention via this program, on-scene or by telephone. Each person’s reaction to a traumatic incident can be quite personal; however, victims of a tragedy or crime often commonly feel they have lost complete control over everything in their lives.
During the aftermath of a tragedy, individuals often want to talk to someone who understands their immediate needs as it relates to their safety and their different choices. NSVCS’ intervention ensures all victims feel safe, secure, and linked to any support services that can benefit their situation. Referrals to other service agencies that offer ongoing support are offered. To learn more about the VQRP program, including eligibility criteria, click here.
Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario
North Simcoe Victim Services (NSVS) is one of about 50 agencies within the province to offer VCAO programs funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (Province of Ontario). The VCAO teams consist of staff and volunteers within the community who have been trained in crisis intervention to offer practical assistance, emotional support, referrals, and information to victims, either on-scene or via phone.
VCAO programs are driven by dedicated and caring volunteers, working hand-in-hand with police and emergency service personnel. To learn more about VCAO programs, click here.