One in five Canadians will experience mental health issues in their lives – that’s approximately 45,000 individuals in our region alone. The World Health Organization has stated that mental illness, specifically depression, is the leading cause of ill health and disability worldwide.

Unfortunately, our children and youth are not spared.  In an average year, the RIH Child & Adolescent Mental Health interdisciplinary team case manages 240 children and youth, and conducts 60 follow-up appointments every week. It also conducts Emergency Department crisis response assessments and handles 10+ crisis calls a day.

Almost everyone has been touched by the devastating impacts of mental illnesses and addictions and the shattering effects they have on family and friends. Mental illness and addictions are responsible for the highest number of inpatient days at RIH.

Your donation will help ensure these patients have access to a healing environment, exercise equipment and some of the comforts of home on the road to recovery.