The Interior Savings Community Investment Fund has contributed nearly $18,000 to purchase essential audio-visual equipment and furniture for Foundry Kelowna, an integrated youth clinic set to open in spring 2017. This investment will be used to create a multi-purpose space where youth and families can participate in group therapy sessions, educational groups, and peer support programs such as Take a Break.
Launched in 2015 by the Canadian Mental Health Association, Kelowna (CMHA Kelowna), Take a Break provides support and resources for families caring for a child or youth up to age 25 who are experiencing mental health or substance use issues. This program enables parents and caregivers to make connections, share experiences, support each other, and learn enhanced coping skills. Take a Break is one of many programs and services that will be offered through Foundry Kelowna, a one-stop shop for primary care, social services, and more.
“CMHA Kelowna is leading the way in a new and innovative approach to change the way mental health services are provided to youth in our community,” says Kathy Conway, CEO of Interior Savings “By bringing all the services a youth might need together into one bright and welcoming space, while also providing support to parents and caregivers, Foundry has an opportunity to make a big difference in our community. We are glad we can support it.”
Foundry Kelowna is one of the centres announced in 2016 as part of a provincial network of easily accessible, youth-friendly service sites hosted by local non-profit organizations. No matter what a young person presents with, they will receive the help they need. The focus is on treating the whole person whether it be primary care, mental health, substance use, or counselling and social services, such as access to housing, employment and education support. The new centre, located on the corner of Kirschner and Hwy97, is planned to open spring 2017.
“We are so inspired by the level of collaboration in our community to ensure young people and families get access to help that will make all the difference in the trajectory of their lives,” says Shelagh Turner, Executive Director of CMHA Kelowna, lead agency for Foundry Kelowna. CMHA Kelowna has partnered with the Kelowna General Hospital Foundation to raise a further $2 million dollars over the next three years to ensure the clinic meets the unique needs in the local community.
For more information about Foundry Kelowna, and how you can support this game-changing initiative, visit www.cmhakelowna.com/donateforyouth
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