HALIFAX: Community organizations across the province will be able to provide more mental health and addictions support to those in need with new government funding announced today, Dec. 11.
The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia will receive over $1.6 million, to be distributed as grants to organizations province-wide.
“The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has been incredibly challenging and has had an impact on many Nova Scotians’ mental health,” said Leo Glavine, Minister of Health and Wellness. “This investment will improve access to mental-health services and remove barriers for people across the province to get the help they need.”
Grants will be up to $25,000 each. Applications will be reviewed by an independent committee and will be assessed based on whether they address a unique need, empower positive change, or promote recovery and reintegration for Nova Scotians living with mental illness and addiction.
Funding comes from Gambling Awareness Nova Scotia, the Department of Health and Wellness and the federal Safe Restart Agreement.
Quotes
“The events over the past year have taken a toll on our collective mental health. More Nova Scotians are struggling with their mental wellness while those already living with mental illness and addiction face significant challenges in their treatment and recovery. This unprecedented donation will ensure we can provide funding to many important and worthwhile programs that will make a difference in the lives of Nova Scotians living with mental illness and addiction, and their loved ones.”
– Starr Cunningham, president and CEO, Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia
Quick Facts:
— the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia will begin accepting online applications on Dec. 14 at 10 a.m.
— government’s investment in mental health and addictions has increased to $314.5 million this year
— Gambling Awareness Nova Scotia was established in 1998 to receive and distribute funds (a percentage of VLT revenues) to reduce the harmful effects of gambling; in 2020, its mandate was broadened to address other co-occurring mental health and addictions issues
— federal Safe Restart Agreement funding is available for community organizations that serve those most vulnerable to the health, social and economic impacts of COVID-19
Additional Resources:
Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia: https://www.mentalhealthns.ca/
Province of Nova Scotia Mental Health and Addictions: https://novascotia.ca/dhw/mental-health/
Government of Canada Safe Restart Agreement: https://www.canada.ca/en/intergovernmental-affairs/services/safe-restart-agreement.html
Nova Scotia Health Authority Mental Health and Addictions services: https://mha.nshealth.ca/en
IWK Health Centre Mental Health and Addictions: http://www.iwk.nshealth.ca/mental-health
