Funding supports the expansion of YMCA mental wellness programs

Toronto – March 1, 2023 – Member of Parliament Julie Dzerowicz, on behalf of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, announced nearly $165,000 of direct funding to YMCA of Greater Toronto with an additional $50,000 through centralized resources and supports at West End YMCA. The funding will support the scaling up and expansion of the “Y Mind” evidence-based, youth-informed, early intervention programs across Canada.

The programs are intended for young people aged 13-30 years of age who are experiencing mild to moderate anxiety and/or depression and aim to support the development of effective coping skills and improvements to participants’ overall well-being. Y Mind introduces them to evidence-based tools and connects them with peers and experienced professionals.

This announcement is part of a $100 million investment provided in Budget 2021 to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Mental health promotion and mental illness prevention are critical components for wellbeing and can help reduce demands on the health care system. I am confident that the Y Mind program will help young people in Davenport and Canada as well as spread the message that there are resources that can help those who are struggling.”
Julie Dzerowicz Member of Parliament Davenport

"Mental health is health and our charity is grateful for the support from the Public Health Agency of Canada to help us deliver the Y Mind program in the GTA. This funding will help our Y improve the lives of hundreds of local teens and young adults who are struggling with their mental well-being.”
Medhat Mandy President & CEO of the YMCA of Greater Toronto

“It is essential that we increase the resources and remove the barriers to mental health supports for young people in Canada, especially those in underserved communities who have been disproportionately facing the negative impacts of the pandemic. Today's funding to the YMCA will help young people across Canada know that it's okay to not be okay, and that through these evidence-based, youth-informed programs, more supports will be available.”
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, and Associate Minister of Health

To learn more about the Y Mind program, visit: Y Mind at https://ymcagta.org/youth-programs-new/y-mind.

About the YMCA of Greater Toronto

The YMCA of Greater Toronto is a charity that ignites the potential in people, helping them grow, lead and give back to their communities. For over 170 years, the YMCA of Greater Toronto has provided opportunities for people to shine through a variety of programs and services including health and fitness, licensed child care, camps, employment and immigrant services, education and training, and services for youth, families and seniors. Promoting equity and boosting well-being across more than 440 locations in the Greater Toronto Area, the Y is a leading charity that helps everyone shine. For more https://ymcagta.org.