Minister Jennifer Whiteside recently unveiled significant expansions to youth mental health and addiction counselling services in Surrey and beyond. Here’s what you need to know:
New Foundry Centres in 10 Communities
Minister Whiteside announced the addition of new Foundry centres in various communities, including South Surrey, Burnaby, Chilliwack, Nanaimo, Port Alberni, Quesnel, SookeWestshore, Vancouver, Vanderhoof, and the West Kootenays. These new centres will join the existing 25, bringing the total to 35 across British Columbia.
Foundry Surrey: A Hub for Youth Counselling
The announcement was made at the Foundry Surrey centre, a sprawling 18,000-square foot facility set to open its doors by year’s end. With over 80,000 youth in the central Surrey and Newton area, the need for accessible mental health services is evident.
Services Tailored to Youth Needs
Foundry Surrey aims to cater to individuals aged 12 to 24, offering walk-in counselling and various other support services. Minister Whiteside emphasized the importance of providing judgment-free environments where youth can access confidential care and support.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Statistics show that 75% of serious mental health issues manifest before the age of 25. Through Foundry services, thousands of young individuals aged 12-24 have accessed vital support, both in-person and through virtual platforms.
A Labour of Love
Dr. Steve Mathias, Foundry’s executive director, expressed the significance of this expansion, calling it a “labour of love.” By 2027, the network aims to have 35 open centres, along with its seven-day-a-week virtual service, Foundry Virtual.
How to Access Support
For those seeking support or information, Foundry’s website offers valuable resources. Additionally, the provincial government’s website provides guidance on mental health and addiction support services across British Columbia.
Expanding mental health and addiction services for youth is crucial for fostering a healthier and more resilient community. With Foundry’s continued efforts, more young individuals will have access to the care and support they need to thrive.
Written by Jared Gibbons – Top 1% Realtor in the Fraser Valley.