HALIFAX - Police are encouraging anyone with direct knowledge of alleged criminal acts at the Nova Scotia Home for Colored Children to contact them.

The RCMP and Halifax police say several former residents have already come forward through media reports in the past few months with allegations of physical and sexual abuse many years ago.

Police say a significant amount of time has passed and people may feel the time is right to speak with investigators.

Police want anyone with information to contact the RCMP-Halifax Police Integrated Sexual Assault Investigative Team.

The Mounties say they will be reviewing any information that may have been provided in the past to ensure they have a complete file on all allegations.