Police team up with mental health workers under new provincial grant

Police Chief Mark Noonan said the long-standing partnership allows the joint team to continue helping residents with complex needs before situations escalate

Brockville police and a local mental health agency are renewing a community outreach program with help from a provincial grant aimed at improving public safety.

The Brockville Police Service has received one-year funding for 2025–26 through Ontario’s Community Safety and Policing Grant. The funding supports a Community Outreach Worker provided by Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Addictions and Mental Health.

The program helps people who come into contact with police and face mental health, addictions or poverty-related challenges. Police identify individuals who may benefit, then visit them with the outreach worker to assess needs and discuss support options. Participation is voluntary, and referrals are made based on the individual’s choices.

Police Chief Mark Noonan said the long-standing partnership allows the joint team to continue helping residents with complex needs before situations escalate.

Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Addictions and Mental Health has hired Darla David as the outreach worker. She has training in psychology and addictions and experience supporting people facing homelessness and concurrent disorders.

Clinical manager Jordan Blanchard said the program strengthens community health by improving access to timely care.