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The Central Okanagan Foundation (COF) has donated $50,000 towards the new integrated youth and family mental health care centre in Kelowna.
The fundraising goal is set at $2 million for the project.
The $50,000 was presented to Allison Ramchuk from the KGH Foundation and Shari Slattery from CMHA Kelowna.
Both the KGH Foundation and the CMHA have a joint campaign to open Foundry Kelowna, a care centre for youth between 12 and 24 years of age who suffer with mental illness and substance issues.
"Foundry Kelowna is a giant step forward in how we support our young people suffering with mental illness and substance issues. The need is urgent,” said Sharon McCoubrey, board chair of Central Okanagan Foundation.
“We know that this funding will truly make a difference in the future health of our communities’ youth and families.”
According to the COF, about one in five youth in B.C. are in need of mental health or substance use services and less than 25 per cent are getting the help they need. The goal with Foundry Kelowna is to provide about two dozen services including primary care, counselling, clinical care, as well as access to housing, jobs and training.
"While we knew that this campaign was so important, the gift from the COF further validates that our community is ready to really take a stand for our young people,” said Allison Ramchuk.
KGH Foundation launched a 'Not Alone' fundraising campaign this month. which shares stories on Facebook from people who have been impacted by mental illness.
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