As youth on Vancouver Island report dealing with higher levels of stress, Island Health says grants are becoming available to support their mental health.
Island Health and the Pacific Public Health Foundation have announced that grant applications are open for projects focused on youth mental health and resilience.
A total of $450,000 will be allocated to the Youth Resilience Grants Program, with hopes of improving the well-being of youth when facing challenging life events.
Chief medical health officer Dr. Réka Gustafson says these grants help fill a real gap in their system.
“These kinds of programs are essential for the resilience and well-being of young people,” said Gustafson.
“Youth often tell us that what got them through challenging times was connection, that one mentor who made them feel seen or that one program that engaged them when they needed it the most.”
Island Health says there is an increase in poor mental health for youth because of disconnection, isolation, climate change impacts, and the ongoing toxic drug crisis.
For applications, they should deal with connecting youth to one or more stable and supportive adults, give them connections to culture, a sense of autonomy and purpose, social learning, emotional learning, skills, and a belonging to a family, community or school.
You have until December 20 to apply. A link can be found here.
