Resources for First Responders

Who We Are

The Ottawa First Responders Foundation (OFRF)

What the Fund Does

The Clinician Assistance Fund is a program dedicated to enhancing the mental wellness of Ottawa’s First Responders, including Police, Fire, and Paramedic services. This includes active personnel, veterans or retirees, and their family members.

About the Fund

Recognizing the unique needs of the Ottawa First Responder community, the fund aims to remain adaptable and inclusive in the types of services it supports, prioritizing approaches that foster sustainable mental health benefits. Typically, $1,000 per quarter is paid to the clinician/mental health provider. We will consider payment for receipts 60 days prior to the application for first-time applicants. All submissions will be based on funding availability. Failure to show up without a valid reason may result in direct billing by the therapist. OFRF funding will not be applied to missed appointments. The applicant is responsible for any charges that apply.

Scope – Individual Support

This fund offers financial support to individuals seeking mental health services to enhance their wellness. Once an application is approved, payment is made directly to the clinician via EFT, ensuring a smooth and secure process for accessing the necessary support.

Criteria

• Applicant must be an active or retired Ottawa First Responder retiree or family member.
• Applicant must have or have established contact with a clinician at the time of application.

Funding Timeframe

We strive to respond within five business days of receiving applications. Funding is allocated based on availability. You can reapply for additional funding.

Application Review

Your application will be reviewed by the Foundation and held confidential.

Application Checklist

To complete an application, you need the following information and document.
• Applicants name and contact information
• Are you active or retired: Ottawa Police, Paramedic, Fire, OC Transpo Special Constable, Ottawa Airport Fire Fighter?
• Are you a family member of any of the above?
• Name and email address of your clinician/mental health provider
• Proof of employment as an Ottawa First Responder, i.e., a City ID or the contact information of a person within your organization.
• Permission for OFRF to contact the clinician/mental health provider or person within your organization

Applicants who receive funding from OFRF must fully participate in their sessions. Failure to show up without a valid reason may result in direct billing by the therapist.