HPD receives $25k grant to expand mental wellness programs
rebekah.yancey@hartselleenquirer.com
The Hartselle Police Department was recently awarded a $25,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to expand its mental wellness program, an initiative aimed at supporting the mental well-being of law enforcement officers. The funds, provided through the 2024 Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA), will enhance the d e p a r t m e n t ‘s existing peer sup port services and provide addition al resources to improve mental health outcomes for law enforce ment personnel.
The LEM HWA program is designed to improve the delivery of men tal health and wellness services across law enforcement agencies. By funding initiatives such as peer support, family resources, suicide prevention and specialized training, the program seeks to address the mental health challenges that law enforcement officers often face, including stress, trauma and burnout.
Capt. Alan McDearmond of the Hartselle Police Department emphasized the significance of the peer support program in fostering a healthy, resilient force.
“This grant will allow us to expand our wellness resources and provide officers with the mental health support they need. One of the key components of our program is connecting officers with one another-officers who understand the unique challenges we face. This peer support system allows them to open up, share experiences and help one another heal from past trauma,” McDearmond said.
The department’s peer support program has already been a critical resource for officers, particularly in the aftermath of traumatic events. Many officers struggle with the emotional toll of their work, which may include witnessing distressing incidents like suicide, violent crimes or accidents, McDearmond said. While the program is not designed to provide professional counseling, it serves as a way for officers to connect with trusted colleagues who can listen, offer support and share coping strategies.
“Having someone who truly understands what you’re going through can make all the difference,” McDearmond added. “Sometimes, it’s not about offering advice-it’s about being there to listen. Officers often feel isolated because of the unique nature of their work, but peer support gives them a safe space to talk about the stresses they carry without judgment.” Additionally, HPD is partnering with Alli-Connect, a wellness app that facilitates mental wellness by allowing officers to connect with others who have been trained to listen and provide emotional support. The app also offers a variety of resources designed to promote mental health and wellness, including mindfulness exercises, stress management tools and access to additional counseling if needed.
