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County accepts $62,500 NY CARES UP grant to expand peer support for first responders
Summary
Orange County accepted a $62,500 NY CARES UP Police Liaison grant to support peer support services for first responders; officials reported 342 referrals last year and outlined outreach and wellness activities for 2026.
The committee approved acceptance and appropriation of $62,500 in NY CARES UP grant funding for Emergency Services Police Liaison peer-support services. Commissioner Peter Cirigliano introduced Philip Salinardi as the county’s Peer Support Coordinator and described the program’s goals to normalize seeking help among first responders.
Deputy Commissioner Robert Doss told the committee the Peer Support Team made 342 referrals last year and has already recorded 67 referrals so far this year. He said the money will fund ongoing training, outreach at community events and integration of peer support into the Police Academy. “This program is confidential and they have trained several individuals to be a part of the team,” Doss said, and outlined plans for family events and a first-responder health fair in 2026.
Committee members commended the program; Chairwoman Laurie R. Tautel thanked staff for advancing mental-health supports for first responders.
