Ontario Investing in Mobile Crisis Response Team for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex
Funding will allow police and mental health professionals to help people in crisis
NEWS
January 28, 2024
LAMBTON-KENT-MIDDLESEX — The Ontario government is providing $120,000 and $114,090 to respectively help the Middlesex County OPP and Strathroy-Caradoc Police Service provide specialized support to people who are experiencing a mental health crisis. The funding is being delivered through the Mobile Crisis Response Team Enhancement Grant and enables police to utilize trained crisis workers when responding to those in need.
“By pairing police with mental health professionals, we’re providing compassionate, effective support to individuals in crisis while promoting safety for everyone involved. This initiative will make a meaningful difference in how we address mental health and addiction challenges in our communities.” — Steve Pinsonneault, MPP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex.
Mobile Crisis Response Teams consist of police officers and crisis workers responding to complex situations where mental health or addictions may be a factor. Supported by the police, crisis workers can help determine whether an individual suspected of experiencing a crisis should be sent to an emergency department for treatment and provide connections to community programming and supports if necessary.
“When people need help, every second matters. That’s why we’re providing training and resources to the police officers and nurses on Ontario’s Mobile Crisis Response Teams so they can best support those facing a mental health or addictions crisis,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “This investment will put the right people in the right places to de-escalate situations that could pose a safety risk. Working together with our police community partners, we’re keeping Ontario safe.”
In 2024-25, the Ontario government is allocating more than $4.5 million to 40 police services and Ontario Provincial Police detachments to strengthen their Mobile Crisis Response Teams across the province.
QUICK FACTS
- The Mobile Crisis Response Team Enhancement Grant is part of Ontario’s Roadmap to Wellness to build Ontario’s mental health and addictions system.
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CONTACT
Wallaceburg Office:
Unit 14 – 60 McNaughton Ave, Wallaceburg, ON N8A1R9
519-627-1015
Strathroy Office:
81 Front St W, Strathroy, ON N7G 1X6
519-245-8696