As demand from York Region high school students for mental health support is higher than ever, the local chapter of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) said this year’s Mental Health in Motion fundraising event on June 9 in Newmarket is more critical than ever.
The largest fundraiser for youth mental health in raises money for the CMHA's mobile youth walk-in clinic, called MOBYSS. The vehicle offers youth aged 12 to 25 a free, confidential and safe space to talk to a medical or mental health professional.
“An alarming 20 per cent of children and youth in our community are experiencing a mental health challenge. That means more than 25,000 youth in York Region and south Simcoe could benefit from immediate access to MOBYSS. We are expanding with more virtual clinics and high school visits but there is so much more need, and no kid should be left behind,” Rebecca Shields, CEO of CMHA York Region and South Simcoe, said in a news release.
“Funds raised through Mental Health in Motion are critical to keeping MOBYSS on the road and helping CMHA to expand the breadth and accessibility of youth wellness services in our community.”
“My experience with MOBYSS and CMHA’s youth wellness programs makes me feel that I can communicate whatever I need help with, be it big or small. The experience is not only helpful, but it gives you a sense of relief after you talk to a trusted adult. It has helped a lot, and I am very glad I got into the program to talk about what I need to talk about,” said a local MOBYSS youth client.
On Sunday, June 9, more than 400 York Region and south Simcoe residents are expected to participate in person at Ray Twinney Recreation Complex. Routes are available for all skill levels and ages, including a 60 or 20-kilometre ride, or a five-km run or walk. Mental Health in Motion will kick off at 9:30 a.m. and a barbecue lunch will be served starting at 11:30 a.m for all registrants.
Virtual participants can run, walk or cycle their chosen distance any time, anywhere from now until June 9. Register or make a donation at cmhainmotion.ca.
CMHA is grateful for the support of sponsors across the community: Magna, Foster Family Chiropractic and Associates, Bell Canada, NewmarketToday.ca, Metroland Media Group, Futuresign Multimedia Displays, Positive Mind Wellness Inc., Cattanach Hindson, Sutton, Vanveldhuizen LLP Barristers and Solicitors, Allan Law, TS Tech, Powell Contracting, United Soils, Fieldgate Developments, and Knowledge Broker Real Estate.
Contact CMHA’s senior director of philanthropy for event sponsorship opportunities at [email protected].
