Health Sciences North (HSN) and the UCCM Anishinaabe Police Service (UCCM Police) are proud to announce a significant step forward in enhancing emergency mental health services across Manitoulin Island. Thanks to a generous donation from UCCM Police, the Mobile Crisis Rapid Response Team (MCRRT) is now equipped with a dedicated crisis vehicle, enabling mental health professionals to respond to calls more safely and effectively.
The MCRRT is a collaborative initiative between HSN, OPP, and UCCM Police that pairs police officers with mental health crisis workers to provide immediate, on-site support to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. By offering rapid assessments and connecting individuals directly to appropriate community services, the team is helping to divert people from emergency departments and instead deliver care where it is most needed — in the community.
"The donation of this crisis response vehicle by the UCCM Anishinaabe Police Service is a powerful example of partnership in action," said Pete VanVolkingburgh, Registered Psychotherapist at HSN. "This will significantly enhance our ability to provide timely, compassionate care to individuals facing mental health challenges across the six UCCMM First Nation communities and the Highway 6 corridor."
In 2024 alone, the MCRRT responded to 884 calls for service, highlighting the growing need for accessible, immediate mental health support across Manitoulin Island. Mental health responders Nick Bateman, Registered Social Worker, and VanVolkingburgh have been instrumental in delivering this frontline care, focusing on de-escalation, crisis management, and connecting individuals to long-term community supports.
"We are incredibly proud to work alongside our policing partners on Manitoulin Island," added VanVolkingburgh. "This donation ensures we can continue delivering high-quality, responsive care, and we are deeply grateful for the professionalism and dedication shown by both the UCCM Anishinaabe Police Service and the Ontario Provincial Police."
Other jurisdictions across the province have reported significant reductions in Mental Health Act apprehensions through similar models, underscoring the importance of rapid, community-based mental health interventions.
“As a police service, we recognize that mental health crises require a specialized response,” said UCCM Police Chief James Killeen. “Our donation reflects our deep commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities. We are proud to work hand-in-hand with Health Sciences North and our partners to provide care that meets people where they are, with the dignity and support they deserve.”
Together, HSN and UCCM Police are building a stronger, more responsive mental health system for Manitoulin Island — one that puts individuals, families, and communities first.