Gangs

Does your community have a problem with gangs? Are you or anyone you know in a gang? Have you been approached by a gang trying to recruit you?

A gang:

  • self-identifies as a group (e.g., has a group name, wears similar clothes)
  • is generally seen by others as a group
  • is involved with the criminal justice system because of some activities done by members

While a gang can seem like a way out or a place to belong, members often face serious consequences for their choices. It is important to remember that:

  • you can be tried as a juvenile from ages 12-18; this can result in detention
  • you have to apply to have your juvenile record removed
  • criminal records directly affect your ability to get a job or travel
  • in Canada, the police have the right to take away anything that is stolen or purchased with money someone made through criminal activity
  • prisons can be violent, unsafe, and lonely

If you are in a gang and no longer want to be, don’t tell the gang that you want to leave. This can affect your safety. A Kids Help Phone counsellor can connect you with people who have experience in gang exiting (leaving a gang) and put you in touch with programs that can help you leave. To contact help please call: 1-800-668-6868.

More Information About Gangs

Kids Help Phone

Toll free, 24/7, confidential:
1-800-668-6868

Text:
CONNECT to 686868 for text chats

  • www.kidshelpphone.ca

Crime Stoppers

(Saskatchewan)

www.saskcrimestoppers.com
Anonymous: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)

St8-Up

(Find support to leave the gang lifestyle behind)

www.str8-up.ca

Public Safety

(Canada)

www.publicsafety.gc.ca

Gang Prevention

(British Columbia)

www.gangprevention.ca

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