$6,615 for RVH’s youth mental health unit

BARRIE — The Simcoe Muskoka Regional Child and Youth Mental Health Program got a little financial boost from a paramedic.

But it was the high-profile exposure for the program that has to recognized.

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) received a $6,615 donation from local paramedic, author and mental health advocate Natalie Harris.

Mary Webb, RVH’s child mental health and adult crisis services head, Natalie Harris and Eric Dean, RVH Foundation CEO accept half the proceeds from the evening for the Simcoe Muskoka Regional Child and Youth Mental Health Program.

“We are so thankful for not only the funds raised by Natalie, but also for her advocacy,” said Eric Dean, RVH Foundation CEO.

“By sharing her own story about mental illness and the care (Harris) received at RVH, she is encouraging people to speak up about their experiences and empowering them to seek help.”

The funds were raised through Harris’s recent event, an Evening for Mental Health.

A soldout crowd of close to 300 people enjoyed an evening featuring keynote speakers Sean McCann, formerly of the band Great Big Sea, and Michael Landsberg, Canadian sports journalist and founder of #sicknotweak, who both shared their personal journey with mental health.

The event raised an equal amount for #IVEGOTYOURBACK911, a campaign which brings awareness to Emergency First Responder’s mental health.

“It takes a village to care for those suffering from mental illness. Part of that village includes RVH,” says Harris. “Having the ability to care for young people battling with their mental health here, in Barrie, is so essential for their recovery.”

The Simcoe Muskoka Regional Child and Youth Mental Health Program officially opened on December 19, 2017.

The unit features eight inpatient beds, child and youth friendly décor, and a day program so kids can get the help they need and return home each night.