Winnipeg, MB – In recognition of the added toll the pandemic is taking on our Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) first-responders working on the front-lines, the preliminary 2021 Budget Update adds $250,000 for counselling and other supports.
“Trauma psychologically hurts and injures, and this investment will support emotional health services for WFPS members during this difficult time,” said Sherri Rollins, Chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on Protection, Community Services and Parks. “The stress of working in the WFPS goes beyond battling fires and attending medical calls. Seriously distressing issues like abuse, car accidents, and suicides, take an emotional toll, causing trauma and real injury to our members.”
The proposed additional funding will go toward helping members of the WFPS working on the front-line cope with the trauma and emotional stress of the pandemic.
The additional funding builds on increased operating funding for the WFPS over the course of the multi-year balanced budgets. Funding will go from $204.3 million in 2020 to $216.9 million in 2023, an increase of $12.6 million or 6 percent over three years.
“I’m proud of the work our WFPS members do on a daily basis in support of our residents, and this additional funding will help protect those who protect our city,” said Rollins.