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ORDER OF THE BOARD OF ALDERS OF THE CITY OF NEW HAVEN AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF NEW HAVEN TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION TO THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, OFFICE OF COMMUNITY ORIENTED POLICING SERVICES, 2024 LAW ENFORCEMENT MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS ACT IMPLEMENTATION PROJECT, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $200,000.00 TO PROMOTE/ENHANCE MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS PROGRAMS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL AND TO ACCEPT SUCH FUNDS IF OFFERED AND TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS AND CONTRACTS AS NECESSARY.
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WHEREAS, good mental health is as essential as good physical health for law enforcement officers to be effective in keeping our communities safe from crime and violence; and
WHEREAS, the stigma associated with seeking assistance for emotional issues prevents many officers from obtaining services for the stresses and trauma of law enforcement, making them vulnerable to negative consequences for themselves and their families, including substance abuse, divorce, and suicide; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services, through the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA), is offering funding to implement new or enhance existing programs that offer training and services on officer emotional and mental health, peer mentoring, suicide prevention, stress reduction, and police officer family services; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Police Service seeks to use grant funding to develop a Wellness Unit that encourages help-seeking to defend against trauma, distress and burnout by incorporating specific services that enhance coping and resiliency, including education and awareness programs, exercise, nutrition, and stress reduction strategies; and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT ORDERED THAT the Board of Alders of the City of New Haven supports efforts to improve mental health and wellness for law enforcement officers; and
BE IT FURTHER ORDERED THAT the Board of Alders of the City of New Haven recognizes that of...
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