**** Health / Wellness Release
Support for Local Mental Health, Addictions Programs Across Nova Scotia
People in need of mental health and addictions services will have more local support options with provincial funding to 23 community organizations.
The funding, through the Mental Health and Addictions Community Wellness Grant program, covers three years for most organizations. This multi-year funding provides stability and will mean less time writing grant applications and more time providing services.
“We received tremendous interest in response to this funding. It’s incredibly encouraging to see so many community organizations supporting Nova Scotians. They are an essential part of the system of care for mental health and addictions and I’m grateful for everything they are doing,” said Brian Comer, Minister of Addictions and Mental Health. “The connections these organizations have within the community help people access support closer to home.”
Through the grant program, organizations could apply for up to $250,000 per year for up to three years to provide mental health and addictions programs and supports that meet the needs of the community. The funding over three years totals $13.8 million.
This increased investment in community organizations aligns with Action for Health’s Solution 6 – Address the factors affecting health and well-being – by partnering with communities and empowering Nova Scotians to improve their collective health and wellness. Strengthening community organizations is one more way the government is working to provide universal access to mental health and addictions care.
Quotes:
“We are deeply grateful to the Office of Addictions and Mental Health for their investment in our Peer Support Incubator Hub through the community wellness framework. This funding will enable us to expand our reach and offer more Nova Scotians the opportunity to engage in peer support groups that promote empowerment and foster meaningful connections. With this support, we are one step closer to building a mentally healthier and more inclusive community for all Nova Scotians.”
— Johanne Thompson, Executive Director, Canadian Mental Health Association Nova Scotia Division
“One in three people are at risk for or are living with an eating disorder in Nova Scotia. These are complex illnesses, but recovery is possible. Eating Disorders Nova Scotia has created a thriving recovery community – connecting people with resources, educating the community about this illness and providing a range of peer support programs, including support for families. Being able to access non-judgemental support and information – all without needing a diagnosis or referral – can make all the difference. We are pleased to work with the Office of Addictions and Mental Health to support those living with this illness and their families through our education and peer support programs.”
— Shaleen Jones, founder and Executive Director, Eating Disorders Nova Scotia
“Viola’s Place is honoured to be selected as a recipient of this funding. We have long envisioned this opportunity and are excited to see it come to fruition. This investment represents a significant step towards making mental health services more accessible to those who need them most, contributing to a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
— Lisa Deyoung, Executive Director, Viola’s Place Society, New Glasgow
Quick Facts:
– under the community wellness framework, the Office of Addictions and Mental Health will fund multi-year grants, one-time project grants and early career research grants
– the office also supports community organizations offering grief, bereavement and mental health supports in Colchester, Cumberland and Hants counties through the Healing Pathways Community Fund
Additional Resources:
News release – New Mental Health, Addictions Grant for Early-Career Researchers: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/
News release – More Funding for Community Mental Health Services, Supports: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/
Programs and supports for mental health, wellness and addictions: https://novascotia.ca/mental-
Action for Health, the government’s plan to improve healthcare: https://
Mental Health and Addictions Community Wellness Grant recipients (funding amounts are for three years unless otherwise noted):
– Aidean’s Place, Yarmouth – $728,425
