Three Peace Country organisations have received funding to support people experiencing mental health and addiction challenges. It’s part of $5 million in additional grants from the provincial government to build on the work being done by 27 organisations.
“Our focus when it comes to mental health and addiction is to ensure that every Albertan has every opportunity to improve their lives and recover from the challenges they face,” says Associate Minister of Health and Addictions Mike Ellis.
On top of $150,000 previously allocated, the Grande Prairie Friendship Centre is set to receive another $140,000. It will go to provide cultural mental wellness supports, including peer counselling and a virtual online community.
The Grande Prairie Palliative Care Society is also getting an extra $140,000 to top up the $144,088 previously allocated to support seniors’ end-of-life mental health through mental health coordinators and specialized volunteers that assess, support, and provide referrals and community connections.
In Peace River, the Sagitawa Friendship Centre has had its grant doubled from $70,000 to $140,000. The funds are being used to provide youth programming designed to offer peer support, coping skills workshops, and support groups.
The initial funds were earmarked in the 2021-22 provincial budget.