In Canada, 911 dispatchers are the first first responders in an emergency. In communities across the country, they are the vital first link in our emergency response system. Despite their crucial role, these dedicated individuals are not included in the Memorial Grant Program for First Responders - a grant payable to the families of first responders whose deaths are attributable to, and resulting from, performance of their duties. This needs to change!

Members of the 911 dispatcher community, like others in emergency services, face immense stress and life-altering situations daily. They are the calm voice during chaos, guiding and providing essential help to those in need and coordinating with other first responders during critical moments. However, their role has been overlooked in the Memorial Grant Program for First Responders, which currently excludes them from the acknowledgment and benefits given to other first responders who have died due to their duties. Data indicates that Public safety communicators (911 dispatchers) experience a higher level of suicidal behaviours than their public safety counterparts, including police and fire.

Including 911 dispatchers in the Memorial Grant Program would ensure that the families of these fallen heroes receive much-needed financial support and recognition, similar to their counterparts in police, fire, and emergency medical services. We must not let their contributions go unnoticed any longer.

This petition calls on the Minister of Public Safety, the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree and the Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience, the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski to amend the criteria for the Memorial Grant Program to include emergency dispatchers who have died as a result of their service. Let us champion this change to ensure their legacies are honoured, their families supported, and their commitment appreciated.

Sign this petition to recognize the first first responders today.