Kawartha Lakes Paramedics and Police Service receive $25,000 each to support mental health and wellness
Kawartha Lakes – The Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Service and the Kawartha Lakes Police Service have each received $25,000 in provincial funding to enhance mental health and wellness initiatives for their front-line staff through Ontario’s Mental Health Supports for Public Safety Personnel (MHS4PSP) Program. These investments will provide first responders with access to specialized training and resources that address the unique pressures and trauma associated with emergency response work.
Launched in 2024 and expanded for 2025–26, the MHS4PSP Program is investing $32 million across Ontario to bolster mental health resources for public safety personnel. The initiative aims to reduce stigma, promote early intervention, and improve access to services designed specifically for emergency responders.
Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Service
Kawartha Lakes Paramedics respond to nearly 14,000 calls each year, offering skilled care to residents during critical moments. The $25,000 in funding will be invested in advanced training for the Peer Support Team, Superintendents and, most importantly, front-line staff.
“We are very appreciative of the opportunity to improve mental health and resiliency support for our Paramedic Service,” said Deputy Chief Jamie Golden. “Over the next four months, we will use this access to training to assist our staff with a focus on mental health promotion, resiliency-building and early intervention measures tailored to the occupational stresses associated with the work our staff perform daily.”
Kawartha Lakes Police Service
Kawartha Lakes Police Service responded to just under 17,000 calls in 2024. Their $25,000 in provincial funding will support enhanced resiliency training and initiatives that strengthen peer support.
“Our officers have a demanding job, both physically and mentally, which takes a toll on their overall health,” said Sergeant Ryan Boutin of the Kawartha Lakes Police. “Shift work, exposure to traumatic events, and the constant need to make critical decisions under pressure can be overwhelming. We are grateful for this opportunity to build resiliency and improve our ability to support one another. The training opportunities provided through this funding will help ensure that everyone in our organization has the tools to maintain their mental and physical well-being.”
Ontario’s MHS4PSP Program is part of the province’s broader strategy to improve mental health resources for emergency responders. The program focuses on reducing barriers to care, expanding access to timely support, and providing services designed specifically for individuals regularly exposed to traumatic events. For more information about the 2025-26 funding recipients, read the backgrounder on the Ontario website.
---
Staying Connected
Activate your Jump Inbox to be the first to know about municipal news and events. Connect with us on Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn.
- 30 -
Media are welcome to visit our Media Portal for high resolution images.
Contact Us
Kawartha Lakes
P.O. Box 9000, 26 Francis Street
Lindsay, ON, K9V 5R8
Telephone: 705-324-9411
Toll free at 1-888-822-2225
After-hours emergencies: 1-877-885-7337
