Spokane Police Dept. Awarded Federal Mental Health and Wellness Grant

The Spokane Police Department has secured a $186,250 grant from the U. S. Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services to enhance mental health and wellness services for officers. Funded through the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA), the grant will support various initiatives including Struggle Well classes and training focused on nutrition, sleep, and stress reduction. Police Chief Kevin Hall stated, "In order to take care of our community, our officers must also take care of themselves," underscoring the importance of mental health for effective policing.

The grant will facilitate peer support, family resources, and suicide prevention strategies, addressing critical needs within the law enforcement community. This investment not only aims to improve officer well-being but also enhances community safety. The Spokane Police Department emphasizes that healthy officers are essential for serving and protecting the community. With the implementation of these programs, the department seeks to foster a supportive environment for its personnel. Overall, this grant marks a significant step towards prioritizing mental health in law enforcement.