Military Veterans Wellness Program

The Toronto Police Service (Service) is pleased to announce the commencement of the Military Veterans Wellness Program (MVWP). The MVWP has been developed in partnership with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Toronto Police Military Veterans Association (TPMVA), Royal Canadian Legion (RCL), Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), and the Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS) program – administered by the Canadian Armed Forces. There are many factors that contribute to a military Veteran being in need of assistance, however, the three most common factors are: financial instability, lack of social support, and health concerns. These factors can result in homelessness and/or active suicidal ideation. There are approximately 3000 – 5000 unhoused Veterans across Canada and Veterans die by suicide at approximately twice the rate of the general public.

The MVWP was established to equip frontline officers with raised awareness and training to enhance the recognition and understanding of military Veterans’ issues, build rapport, and provide a formal mechanism to connect military Veterans with essential social services delivered through the RCL, VAC, and OSISS. After a police referral, these national services will make contact with the Veteran within 72 hours and may provide a case worker, advocate, and/or peer to offer help and assist them in receiving the many benefits and resources provided by these organizations. Every military Veteran deserves honour and respect for their service to Canada, and the Service is a proud supporter of the MVWP as it stands in solidarity with our military Veterans. This commitment is reinforced through the program’s motto, because “Nobody Fights Alone”.