Spokane Police Dept. Awarded Federal Mental Health and Wellness Grant
The Spokane Police Department has been awarded a $186,250 grant from the U. S. Department of Justice to bolster mental health and wellness services for its officers. The funding, provided under the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA) program, supports crucial services like peer support, training, and suicide prevention. Among the initiatives funded are Struggle Well classes, which will focus on nutrition, sleep, stress reduction, and mindfulness.
Police Chief Kevin Hall emphasized that officer well-being is vital for effective community service. This grant reflects a broader trend in law enforcement recognizing the importance of mental health. The Spokane Police Department aims to implement these programs to enhance the wellness of its officers and their families. This investment not only supports individual officers but also aims to improve overall community safety. Such funding signifies a commitment to addressing mental health issues in law enforcement.