More mental health and substance use supports are available to 撸奶社区youth, as has begun offering help.
A news release from the provincial government says Foundry will provide people between 12 and 24 and their families access to free, confidential, age-friendly and supportive mental health and substance-use services, as well as social and recreational programs to fit their unique needs.
"We know that youth in the Sea to Sky area experience mental-health concerns at rates above the provincial average,” said Jaye Russell, executive director, in a news release.
“We also know that of those who reported concerns, almost half indicated they didn't know where to go for help. It is critical to connect youth to services in our community as quickly as possible, while we await Foundry's permanent home on Buckley Avenue. Local youth need these resources more than ever and I am so grateful to our staff, partners and funders for bringing Foundry services to the Sea to Sky corridor."
Jodh Ghuman, youth advisory committee member for Foundry Sea to Sky, explained in the release why the launch is needed locally.
"Having access to Foundry services is important to me because it will create a safe place for youth in the community to belong and express themselves. I am excited about youth having access to counsellors and valuable resources,
Ghuman said. “Mental well-being is super important, especially for today's youth. I have several friends who have struggled with mental health, and I hope the new Foundry services will become a valuable community resource for individuals who need support."
Operated by Sea to Sky Community Services, Foundry Sea to Sky’s permanent home in 撸奶社区will be , at the Buckley affordable housing project. Before that becomes operational, Foundry services will be available at Sea to Sky Community Services Society and their partner locations in Squamish.
The province is providing annual funding for operations and services at Foundry Sea to Sky and also provided one-time funding of $800,000 for the establishment of the centre.
"Young people have been dealing with immense pressures and health challenges, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, the toxic drug crisis and climate emergencies," said Mental Health Minister Sheila Malcolmson, in a news release. "Foundry Sea to Sky will help many young people get the supports they need right in their own community."
Currently, 13 Foundry centres are open throughout the province, including Vancouver-Granville, North Shore (North Vancouver), Campbell River, Ridge Meadows, Abbotsford, Kelowna, Prince George, Victoria, Penticton, Richmond, Terrace, Comox Valley and Langley.
For more information, go to Foundry Sea to Sky: or .
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