Mental Health Initiative: Chesterfield County and Henrico County Support for First Responders
New Office Aims to Support First Responders in Chesterfield County and Henrico County
RICHMOND, Va. -- New resources will soon be in place to address the mental health of Virginia first responders. Governor Glenn Youngkin is establishing an Office of First Responder Wellness to focus on treating first responders' exposure to trauma on the job.
Importance of Mental Health Resources
In his order, Youngkin emphasized the efforts of first responders in Southwest Virginia during the wake of Hurricane Helene, highlighting the need for more resources. WATCH: Virginia emergency crews performed over 70 rescues from Helene flooding.
Youngkin stated that repeated exposure to trauma can significantly affect first responders, thus underscoring the necessity for intervention.
Executive Order Details
The executive order will accomplish two main objectives: establish the Office of First Responder Wellness and appoint a coordinator to oversee its initiatives. This office will provide training, support, and facilitate a working group of stakeholders dedicated to addressing the mental health issues faced by first responders.
Additionally, the office will allocate $3 million in grants to non-profits and local agencies that promote first responder wellness efforts.
Support for First Responders
“It’s not only a physical toll on them but an emotional one, and we can work together to support them to be the best they can be,” Youngkin said. For more information about the office and additional resources for first responders, you can reach out via email at vafirstresponderwellness@dcjs.virginia.gov.
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