$5.47 million via the Municipal Police Grants program will help fund for 44 Saskatoon Police Service positions in 2021-22.

The funding from the Ministry of Corrections and Policing supports initiatives, such as the Police and Crisis Team (PACT), which comprises police officers and mental health workers who provide an integrated and coordinated response to persons experiencing mental health crisis in the community.

Funding also supports one new member for the Crime Reduction Team, which gathers intelligence on street gangs and gang associates, as well as the Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) program.

Saskatchewan Government Insurance is also providing $900,000 for five positions as part of the Combined Traffic Services Saskatchewan initiative. This brings the total amount of the Saskatoon Police Service Funding Agreement to $6.37 million for 49 police positions in 2021-22.

Saskatoon Mayor Charlie Clark says, “Right now is a crucial time for all levels of government to work together to ensure a safe community,” And the mayor says that includes tackling the serious challenges of addictions and mental health affecting so many families and neighbourhoods.