Time to Heal

Wednesday, 26 October 2016 at 09:28

Woodstock Police want everyone to know the actions of one person do not define OUR community.

WOODSTOCK - Woodstock Police want everyone to know the actions of one person do not define OUR community.

WPS issued a press release stating the City will continue to heal and move forward from the recent serious crimes that have impacted our community. Chief Bill Renton says we need to start focusing on healing.

"I think people realize that we've had our share of tragic circumstances and events in our city over the last couple of years and we don't want the perception that Woodstock is an unsavoury place. The actions of one person certainly does not define this community, it's a very vibrant, very supportive community with lot's of great entities and lot's of great people. We are going to get a lot of negative attention, there is going to be attention to these circumstances, they are very tragic but I just don't want people to think that the actions of 1 person really define who we are."

Renton pointed that on Monday the Ontario Court of Appeal turned down he appeal of Tori Stafford's killer to have a new trial saying the tide is changing and our city will prevail from this incident.

Woodstock Police are urging residents to continue to have confidence in our long-term care facilities. Renton points out to the hundreds of RN's, RNA's, PSW's who are currently providing excellent health services to our friends, family and loved ones.

"They are amazing people, they do amazing work, they are very compassionate, they provide professional care to our elderly people and all of our health care professionals in that regard, I'm extremely confident we have great, great, great caregivers in this city and across the Province."

Renton reiterates his sympathy and condolences to family, friends and residents of Woodstock who have all been affected.

"The actions of one person do not define the excellence found in our community. We will heal. We will move forward!"

Victims of this recent tragedy have already been offered VASOC services which provide confidential emotional and practical help during these times. This free service is available to anyone by calling 519-537-2824 x10. Additionally Reach Out is the new 24/7 crisis and support line for people living with addictions and mental health needs as well as their families, caregivers and health care providers. The phone number is 519-433-2023 or toll free is 1-866-933-2023. www.reachout247/ca.