Const. Josalyn Hilts and NHH Social Worker Morgan Emerson
The Cobourg Police Service and Northumberland Hills Hospital say they’re enhancing mental health crisis support across Northumberland County through the expansion of the Mental Health Engagement and Response Team (M-HEART).
A second team is now active during afternoon and evening hours, thanks to new funding from the Mobile Crisis Response Team Enhancement Grant.
The M-HEART program, launched in 2017, pairs a Cobourg Police officer with a mental health clinician from NHH. Together, they respond to urgent mental health calls, providing on-the-spot intervention and support, helping to de-escalate situations and connect individuals with needed services.
“This expansion helps us reach more people when they need us most,” said Susan Walsh, President and CEO of Northumberland Hills Hospital. “It breaks down barriers to care and brings support directly into the community.”
M-HEART’s proactive and compassionate approach is aimed at reducing unnecessary hospital visits and justice system involvement, while improving outcomes for people in crisis.
Cobourg Police Chief Paul VandeGraaf says the addition of a second team means more coverage during critical hours. “This is about ensuring no one falls through the cracks. We’re here when our community needs us.”
The enhanced service reflects a shared commitment to mental health, community safety, and collaborative care.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
