Taking part in the ceremonial faceoff for Scrimmage at Ontario Shores, are from left, DRPS Constable Scott Logan, Dennis Maruk, DRPS Chief Mike Ewles, Ontario Shores President and CEO Glenna Raymond, Keith Acton and Kathy Giroux.
Officers with Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) and a patient All-Star team at Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences (Ontario Shores) enjoyed an afternoon of sport, fun and camaraderie at the first annual Scrimmage at Ontario Shores ball hockey game.
To the delight of both the players and the large audience, two special guests joined the Ontario Shores team: former NHL players Keith Acton and Dennis Maruk. The event was a spirited match and also featured a skills competition with prizes.
“It’s great to have so many wonderful community partnerships working together to help address the needs for mental health care. Events like today’s really demonstrate a community of support, addressing stigma and integration,” says Glenna Raymond, President and CEO of Ontario Shores.
Wednesday’s event was built on the strong relationship between DRPS and Ontario Shores. They share many successful partnerships to support those with mental illness, including the mobile mental health unit that supports officers and those in crisis.
“I am a big believer in all our partnerships with Ontario Shores,” says DRPS Chief Mike Ewles, who enjoyed watching the game and also helped judge the skills competition. “Together we are making a difference every day in our community.”
“This is my first time being involved here, what a wonderful facility and Ontario Shores is doing amazing work for so many people,” comments Maruk. “It was great to spend the afternoon here and to have so much laughter.”
Acton agrees. “What a great event for building relationships and bridging any gaps between patients and the police,” he says. “It was a success and a lot of fun, and the best team won.”
The final score was 17-14 for the patient All-Star team.
The event was also supported by Durham Regional Police Association, Tim Hortons (Whitby Shores Plaza), and Ontario Shores Volunteer Association.
For more information:
Chris Bovie
Community Relations Officer
Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences
905-430-4055 ext. 6574, Cell: 905-995-2443
boviec@ontarioshores.ca