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GARLAND
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT

Work Session Item 5.

City Council Work Session

Meeting Date:

03/18/2024

Title: Victim Assistance, First Responder Programs Grant Application FY25

Submitted By:

Jeffrey Bryan

Strategic Focus Area:

Safe Community

Issue/Summary

Council is requested to consider approving an application and accepting grant funds, if awarded, for the Victim Assistance, First Responder Programs Grant to support first responders and support staff who experience trauma because of their profession.

Background

This will be the first time the Police Department has applied for funding under the Victim Assistance, First Responder Programs Grant. This program aims to provide services and assistance to first responders to address direct and indirect trauma that occurs during their regular duties, either as the result of the commission of crimes by other persons or in response to an emergency.

Applications for this grant can only be submitted by state agencies, local government units, and educational institutions that operate law enforcement agencies employing peace officers under Article 2.12, Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, and first responders under Sec. 421.095, Texas Government Code, including municipalities, counties, independent school districts, universities, public and private colleges and universities, community colleges, and hospital districts seeking direct victim services to first responders.

The objectives of the program are to:

Provide a confidential, specialized, evidence-based approach to treating and reducing stress for officers and first responders;
Improve coping mechanisms/strategies;
Increase morale and productivity, and;
Reduce the stigma of seeking help by providing safe, effective, and confidential services.

If awarded, the grant will provide $60,000 in funding. This grant has a 20% match requirement, which will be met with in-kind contributions.

Consideration / Recommendation

Unless otherwise directed by Council, this item will be scheduled for formal consideration at the March 19, 2024, Council Regular Meeting.

Attachments

Mental Health Grant Resolutions