The final tally for the 2024 Mental Health in Motion event for Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) York Region and South Simcoe is $122,644, which will support its Mobile Youth Walk-In Clinic (MOBYSS).
More than 300 community members took part in walking, cycling and running in the June 9 event, which raised funds through peer-to-peer efforts, sponsorships, corporate donations, on-site purchasing, and a silent auction.
“With the rising rates of anxiety and depression among youth, it’s crucial that teens have immediate access to help when they need it most,” sai8d Rebecca Shields, CEO of CMHA York Region and South Simcoe, in a news release. “Since its inception in 2015, MOBYSS has provided life-saving care to thousands of youths across York Region and south Simcoe. Thanks to our community’s support during this year’s Mental Health in Motion, we will continue to deliver excellent care to our youth.”
Individual fundraising efforts were led by Judy Brunton with $10,190, Vince Gennaro with $3,575, and Winnie Wong with $3,130. The top fundraising team was Team Timbo, which raised $7,930.
CMHA York Region and South Simcoe extends heartfelt thanks to presenting sponsor, Staples Canada and 15 additional sponsors, including Foster Family Chiropractic and Associates, Magna, McDonald’s Canada, Bell Canada, NewmarketToday.ca, Positive Mind Wellness Inc., Metroland, Futuresign, Cattanach Hindson Sutton VanVeldhuizen LLP Barristers and Solicitors, Allan Law, Powell Contracting, United Soils, Wholehealth Pharmacy Partners, Teva, Knowledge Broker Real Estate and Fieldgate Developments.
In-kind support was also provided by community supporters and vendors such as Water Depot, D&D Party Rentals, Big Bone BBQ, FitChic Infinity, Minuteman Press, London Publishing Corp., Village Media, 105.9 The Region, and Neighbour Media.
Youth mental health programs in York Region and south Simcoe
CMHA offers a variety of mental health programs for individuals aged 12 and above including MOBYSS (pronounced mo-bies), Ontario’s first mobile health clinic for youth ages 12 to 25. MOBYSS travels to where youth are in York Region and south Simcoe, offering free support for mental health, physical health, and sexual health support. Learn more at mobyss.ca.
Additional youth services include supportive Youth Wellness, BounceBack Ontario for youth (15 to 17), newcomers support, housing support services, employment services, case management, recovery-oriented groups and more. CMHA York Region and South Simcoe also offers family support groups for those who are caring for a loved one with mental illness. For more information, visit cmha-yr.on.ca/programs/youth.