Programs organized by local police services are getting a funding boost from the provincial government.
Sarnia-Lambton MPP Bob Bailey recently announced $1,850,940 over three years for Lambton OPP and Sarnia Police Service.
”Our government continues to support our local police and the communities they serve through strategic investments in new programs and initiatives,” said Bailey in a statement. “These targeted investments will support the police with the tools and training they need to address some very challenging issues.”
Lambton Police Services Board will receive $1,132,839 and Sarnia Police Services Board will receive $718,100.
"We were very pleased to hear that the government was helping to support and expand certain programs that we do have, mainly the MHEART program (Mental Health Engagement and Response Team) and a human trafficking program that they're working on," said Sarnia Police Cst. John Sottosanti. "The whole intention here is to continue the programs and hopefully with MHEART, we are looking into expanding it after we review the details in regards to the funding."
Sottosanti said the investment to continue the programs was not expected and the amount announced is more than what the service had initially received.
The MHEART program allows for a crisis nurse to accompany officers on calls involving mental health dilemmas. In regards to the human trafficking program, Sottosantti said the funding will allow for more human resources to be dedicated to the initiative.
He said about $420,000 will go toward the MHEART program and nearly $300,000 will support the human trafficking program.
The provincial funding is part of a $267 million investment through the Community Safety Policing Grant Program.
Ninety police service boards will receive funding through the grant program, which aims to help in several areas such as preventing crime in schools, preventing hate-motivated crime, and expanding mental health and addiction services.
