By KELLEN TANIGUCHI on May 5, 2021.
ktaniguchi@medicinehatnews.com@@kellentaniguchi The Alberta government is providing a $100,000 grant to help the mental health crisis response and improve suicide prevention services in Medicine Hat. Led by Alberta Health Services and the Medicine Hat Police Service, the grant will fund additional mental health therapist resources who will work with the MHPS, RCMP, Canadian Mental Health Association and more community partners. “The project is exactly how communities work best – with agencies, community groups and those who respond to crisis all working together in a co-ordinated approach,” said Mayor Ted Clugston. The government hopes the program will prevent suicides in Medicine Hat, which saw 11 people take their own lives between June and December last year. The funding gives the MHPS two trained mental health professionals to help them respond to mental health crisis calls. “Our officers are often first on scene during a mental health or addiction crisis,” said Mike Worden, MHPS chief of police. “Once they have established a safe environment, this project will expedite the individual being connected to care and resources they need. We look forward to working with AHS to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.” The program is scheduled to start this month and a local MLA says she supports this new approach. “Suicide is a preventable tragedy and the sooner that help and support is available, the better chance the person struggling can find hope,” said Michaela Glasgo, MLA for Brooks-Medicine Hat. 10
Is this a joke?
Typical, SW Alberta needs help and we get $100K.
How about some real support Premiere!