Lacombe FCSS, CAYU receive grants to support mental health
Ponoka NewsFeb 18, 2021
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The program aims to support the work of organizations that provide mental health and addiction recovery services as part of the provincial government's
"Alberta's government has always prioritized treating those suffering from addiction and mental health concerns with care and compassion," stated a
"We understand that partnering with local treatment providers is often the best way to deliver the support these Albertans need."
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Although the funding was recently announced, the funds were approved and received by both organizations last fall.
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Lacombe FCSS received the grant funding in September, 2020, according to executive officer
"We were pleased to be approved for Phase I," said MacDonald in an interview.
Phase I of the program was intending to help organizations who provide mental health and addiction recovery services to survey their communities to ascertain the needs of the public during COVID-19, says MacDonald.
In October, FCSS hired a new mental health and addictions facilitator, who investigated the needs in the community.
Since the fall, FCSS has "learned quite a bit," and with a part of the funding allotted for Phase I, has been able to begin implementing some supports, such as virtual support groups.
FCSS is hoping that restrictions will ease enough by March that they will be able to provide small in-person support group sessions.
More support programs are pending.
MacDonald says the intent of the program was that in Phase II, more funding would be provided to develop supports based on the findings of Phase I, however, by the time Phase I was completed, the deadlines for applying for Phase II and III had already passed.
CAYU's mission is to bring hope and wellness to youth and young women, says Peters.
"The funding allows us to continue providing essential supports such as counselling and mental health support for youth and their families," he said.
The funds have been used in their counselling program. CAYU currently has two therapists on staff who are providing counselling to those affected by COVID-19.
It is a multi-site program and the therapists provide sessions to clients around central Alberta on a weekly basis.
CAYU has facilities in