EveryMind Receives Inaugural Peel Police Foundation Grant to Support Vulnerable Youth

EveryMind Mental Health Services is honoured to be among the inaugural recipients of the Peel Police Foundation’s community grants, receiving $50,000 to support counselling and early intervention services for transitional age youth at elevated risk.

“This $50,000 investment will make a real difference for youth and young adults aged 17 to 25 in Peel,” said EveryMind CEO Ceri Harnden. “We know that timely access to counselling and early intervention can be the turning point that helps a young person build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, and avoid crisis. This funding recognizes the critical link between mental health supports and community safety and well-being. We are grateful to the Peel Police Foundation for recognizing both the urgent need and the tremendous potential of investing in our youth.”

The grant will enhance service capacity, with an annual target of 150 youth, reduce wait times, and enable timely access to care for youth requiring early intervention or diversion support, while also supporting youth to build coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and reduce high-risk behaviours.

By addressing underlying factors such as trauma, mental health challenges, and substance use, the program will help prevent escalation to crisis and reduce the likelihood of further involvement with police or the justice system.

“These investments will help connect young people with meaningful opportunities, mentorship, and supports that foster well-being, resilience, and positive community outcomes. By working alongside our community partners, we are building safer, healthier and more connected communities across Peel,” said Chief Nishan Duraiappah, Peel Regional Police & Foundation Board Member.

This inaugural round of funding of $445,000 to six community organizations marks a major milestone for the Foundation, which launched in 2025 to mobilize resources and partnerships that address the region’s most urgent social challenges. The funding is dedicated to two critical areas: empowering vulnerable youth and advancing anti-human trafficking work across Peel Region.

As one of Canada’s fastest-growing regions, Peel continues to face rising demand for social programs and other critical support services. The Foundation was created to help close that gap—directing critical funding to local organizations delivering community-based solutions.

“This investment represents more than funding. It’s a commitment to our community’s future. These organizations are doing vital, life-changing work with young people who need support the most. By investing in prevention, opportunity, and hope, we are helping to build safer neighbourhoods and stronger futures across Peel Region. This is just the beginning of what we aim to achieve together,” Chair Catherine Murray, Peel Police Foundation.

To learn more and get involved, please visit peelpolicefoundation.ca.

For more information about our services, please visit Get Help | EveryMind.