By Cait Crudden
In a bid to address pressing issues surrounding mental health support and bolstering the ranks of volunteer firefighters, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches), along with Assemblyman Steve Stern (D-Dix Hills), Assemblyman Joe DeStefano (R-Medford), and Members of the Dix Hills Fire Department, unveiled an ambitious program modeled after the Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Project. The initiative aims to provide vital mental health resources while offering incentives to retain volunteer firefighters and attract new recruits to the county’s fire departments.
The announcement comes at a critical juncture as communities across Suffolk County, like many others nationwide, grapple with the escalating challenges of mental health and the ongoing need for firefighting personnel. Recognizing these dual concerns, Romaine, Stern, and DeStefano have joined forces to launch a multifaceted program that addresses these issues head-on.
At the heart of the initiative is the adaptation of the Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Project model, a successful program initially developed to support veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues. Under the new initiative, Suffolk County will have trained peers to provide invaluable support and companionship to individuals facing mental health challenges, including volunteer firefighters and EMS workers who often encounter traumatic situations in the line of duty.
In addition to mental health assistance, the program includes funding for vital equipment, greater financial security and introduces innovative incentives aimed at retaining volunteer firefighters and attracting new recruits. Volunteer firefighters play a crucial role in safeguarding Suffolk County’s residents and properties, yet recruitment and retention have become increasingly challenging in recent years.
County Executive Romaine emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental health support and recruiting and retaining volunteer firefighters and EMS workers.
“Imagine calling 911 and no one answers,” said Romaine. “We have to start doing more to encourage volunteers”.
Assemblyman Stern highlighted the significance of incentivizing volunteerism within the firefighting community. Assemblyman DeStefano echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address the shortage of volunteer firefighters and recognizing their selfless service, sacrifices and courage.
Under the new program, volunteer firefighters will have access to a range of incentives, including improved pension benefits, potential tax credits, and training opportunities. Furthermore, efforts will be made to raise awareness of the vital role volunteer firefighters and EMS workers play in safeguarding communities, with targeted recruitment campaigns aimed at attracting younger individuals eager to serve their neighbors. As our volunteers are aging, we need to create packages that are attractive to the younger generation to serve and give back to their communities.
As Suffolk County takes proactive steps to address mental health challenges and bolster its firefighting ranks, the collaborative efforts of County Executive Romaine, Assemblyman Stern, Assemblyman DeStefano, and Members of the Fire Departments throughout our county signal a commitment to fostering resilient communities and ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents. With the introduction of this innovative program, Suffolk County sets a precedent for proactive, community-driven solutions to this pressing societal issues.
