A Canadian charity that provided assistance to first responders and their families has permanently closed its doors and is taking legal action against its former CEO and treasurer for alleged fraud and misuse of donor funds. The Canadian Critical Incident Stress Foundation (CCISF) was established in 2013 to aid police, fire, and paramedic personnel dealing with PTSD and to support families of those who lost their lives in service or due to suicide.
The charity, based in Hamilton, ceased operations late last year and has initiated a lawsuit against former CEO Renee Jarvis and ex-treasurer Kelsey Pitt, accusing them of financial misconduct. Jarvis, who was instrumental in founding the organization and served as its initial employee, brought her daughter, Kelsey Pitt (also known as Kelsey Gallant), on board as treasurer in 2018.
According to the lawsuit filed in September in Ontario Superior Court, Jarvis and Pitt allegedly failed to remit payroll deductions to the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA), resulting in a $90,000 tax debt. Subsequently, they purportedly borrowed over $150,000 from the charity’s funds to address the outstanding tax liability. The lawsuit seeks to recover these misappropriated funds and additional amounts for expenses and damages.
The legal claim asserts that Jarvis and Pitt clandestinely diverted organization funds for personal use without the knowledge or consent of CCISF’s board of directors. Allegedly, they concealed the debt and missing funds, presenting false financial statements during annual meetings. Pitt ceased working in April 2022 following a CRA audit, but remained on the payroll until February 2024, when her employment was terminated. Jarvis was dismissed in November 2024. Both individuals reportedly received salaries exceeding $90,000 annually, along with benefits.
The charity is conducting a forensic audit to ascertain if further funds have been mishandled. Legal representatives for Jarvis and Pitt declined to provide comments or interviews to CBC News, and responses to the lawsuit are pending.
The CCISF previously organized conferences for individuals with PTSD and operated Camp FACES, a summer retreat for bereaved families. Harold Coffin, who assumed the role of board chair after the allegations surfaced, made the difficult decision to halt the charity’s operations in the wake of the controversy. The final Camp FACES event took place last summer, and efforts are underway to wind down the organization in adherence to CRA regulations.
Despite the challenges faced by CCISF, some former participants are looking to carry on the mission through a new independent initiative called Frontline Families, aiming to offer a similar retreat experience next summer. The closure of the charity has deeply impacted families who found solace and support through its programs, with hopes of continuing their healing journey under a new framework.