North Glengarry Fire Services Seeks $25,000 Grant for Mental Health Support

North Glengarry Fire Services is set to apply for a grant of $25,000 from the Mental Health Supports for Public Safety Personnel (MHS4PSP) Grant Program. This funding will be directed towards enhancing mental health services provided by Warrior Health, which specializes in on-demand support for first responders in Ontario and their families.

The proposed grant aims to provide anonymous, around-the-clock access to mental health resources for personnel who have experienced trauma in the line of duty. This initiative is designed to combat the stigma surrounding mental health stress within public safety sectors. Warrior Health offers two distinct streams of support: the Core Services, which are complimentary for public safety personnel, and the Fee-for-Service option that organizations like North Glengarry Fire Services can purchase for their teams.

The $25,000 grant must be utilized by March 2026 and will primarily fund the Fee-for-Service stream. This allocation will allow North Glengarry Fire Services to develop tailored training resources for both current firefighters and new recruits during their onboarding. The training program is accessible online and in-person, equipping leaders to create effective support systems that address mental health challenges stemming from job-related trauma.

In addition to direct mental health support, the Warrior Health programs also address a variety of stress-related issues, including addictions, sleep disorders, and nutritional health, all of which are crucial for maintaining the well-being of public safety personnel as they reintegrate into their work environments.

The North Glengarry Council expressed unanimous support for the grant application. Council member Councillor Massie highlighted the need for ongoing financial commitment, suggesting that the Council explore budget allocations for Warrior Health in future budgets. This recommendation reflects a commitment to the welfare of North Glengarry’s firefighting team and emergency staff, emphasizing the importance of providing adequate mental health resources.

By prioritizing mental health support, North Glengarry Fire Services aims not only to enhance the resilience of its personnel but also to foster a culture of care within the emergency services community.