Ontario invests $9 M in mental health initiatives for PSE students

Ontario has announced that it will provide $9 M of funding annually for 14 projects to improve mental health services for PSE students. As much as $6 M of that funding will go toward the Mental Health Innovation Fund. 12 of the projects will be housed at PSE institutions; these include a bridging project being implemented by the Aboriginal Resource Centre and Counselling Services at the University of Guelph, intended to engage and support Aboriginal learners experiencing mental health challenges; a Summer Aboriginal Student Transition Program, to be piloted by Trent University, Fleming College, Hiawatha First Nation, Curve Lake First Nation, and Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle; a project to identify and remove barriers experienced by Aboriginal students accessing mental health supports at Nipissing University; a harm-reduction strategy around drug use and abuse developed by Algonquin College in partnership with Rideauwood Addictions and Family Services, the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health, and the Tungasuvvingat Inuit Community Centre; and improvements to EGALE Canada Human Rights Trust’s Safer and Accepting Campuses Program, which provides resources and support for Two-Spirit students. Ontario News Release (1) | Ontario News Release (2) | TrentU News | mykawartha.com