In the packed lower level of the North Battleford Lions Den, Canadian Mental Health Association North Battleford officially launched their fundraising campaign Make Room for Mental Health.
The CMHA is a voluntary organization that seeks to reduce the stigma of mental illness and promote "mental health for all" through "advocacy, education, research and service."
The location of the launch, the Lions Den, is also the future site of the CMHA Battlefords branch's building.
Executive Director of CMHA North Battleford, Jane Zielke de Montbrun announced at the launch that one-third of the funds had already been received, approximately $200,000 of the $615,000 goal, which was donated from a number of local businesses, community members, and organizations.
The move is necessary, Zielke de Montbrun said, in order to better serve their members. Members of CMHA, who may suffer from schizophrenia, depression or anxiety, receive training and access to meaningful, paid work, as well as emotional wellness support and are able to build a community through group trips and activities. With the move, the space available for its staff and members will double in size from 1,500 square feet to 3,000.
Donations made to the latest fundraising campaign will go towards renovating and furnishing the new space. The campaign will also be selling birdhouses, built at Saskatchewan Hospital, for $50 along with a $45 charitable tax credit. To donate or learn more information about the Canadian Mental Health Association's fundraising campaign and their programs visit www.cmhask.com.
