DTSSAB Invests in Paramedic Wellness to Support a Strong, Sustainable Paramedic Service

Timiskaming District, ON – The District of Timiskaming Social Services Administration Board (DTSSAB) continues to invest in the long-term well-being of its paramedic workforce through new provincial funding that will expand access to specialized mental health training for frontline staff and leadership within District of Timiskaming Paramedic Services.

Through Ontario’s Mental Health Supports for Public Safety Personnel (MHS4PSP) Grant Program, DTSSAB has received up to $30,000 in one-time funding.  This funding will give DTSSAB paramedics access to evidence-based training initiatives designed specifically for public safety professionals through the Warrior Health program.

This initiative builds on DTSSAB’s existing mental health and wellness supports, including its Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP), and reflects a workplace culture that prioritizes resilience, peer support, and leadership awareness from recruitment through to long-term service.

“Paramedicine is a demanding profession, and supporting mental health is essential to retaining skilled professionals and attracting new ones,” said Sarah Salvis, Paramedic Services Chief. “This training equips both frontline staff and leaders with practical tools to recognize stress, support one another, and build a healthier, more sustainable work environment.”

The Warrior Health program includes training developed in partnership with organizations such as Wounded Warriors Canada and Boots on the Ground, with a focus on mental health literacy, trauma-informed leadership, and conflict resolution—key elements for those considering a career in paramedic services.

“Our paramedics are there for the community during some of life’s most difficult moments,” said Derek Mundle, Board Chair, DTSSAB. “As a Board, we believe it is just as important that they have strong supports behind them. This funding allows us to build on existing mental health resources and provide practical, evidence-based training that helps our paramedics—and those who lead them—stay well, resilient, and ready to continue serving the people of Timiskaming.”

DTSSAB’s participation aligns with the Province of Ontario’s broader expansion of mental health supports for public safety personnel and reinforces the organization’s commitment to fostering a safe, supportive, and resilient workplace for current and future paramedics. Training supported through this funding will be delivered alongside existing EFAP services, providing staff with access to both preventative mental health education and professional support when needed.

Media Contact
communications@dtssab.com

Quotes

 “Our paramedics are there for the community during some of life’s most difficult moments. As a Board, we believe it is just as important that they have strong supports behind them. This funding allows us to build on existing mental health resources and provide practical, evidence-based training that helps our paramedics—and those who lead them—stay well, resilient, and ready to continue serving the people of Timiskaming.”- Derek Mundle, Board Chair, DTSSAB

“Paramedicine is a demanding profession, and supporting mental health is essential to retaining skilled professionals and attracting new ones. This training equips both frontline staff and leaders with practical tools to recognize stress, support one another, and build a healthier, more sustainable work environment.” - Sarah Salvis, Paramedic Services Chief, DTSSAB