NOVA Chemicals has made a generous donation toward mental health services in Sarnia-Lambton.
Bluewater Health Foundation Executive Director Kathy Alexander said the plastics and chemical company has donated $90,000, which will be split three ways.
"A portion of that will be allocated to the core mental health and addictions inpatient unit here at the hospital, a portion will also support the care provided through Ryan's House and then another portion is also supporting our campaign to build and open Access Open Minds for youth and young adults in our community," said Alexander.
Alexander believes the gift will have a long term impact because the pandemic has impacted the mental health of so many individuals locally.
"Something of concern to us as we fundraise to build an Access Open Minds [facility], is the recognition that youth have really experienced a significant decline since the pandemic began. We also know that the care and treatment that many people need access to, in terms of their addictions, and their recovery, and just the accessibility to treatment and counselling has been very difficult for some to be able to get into."
Alexander said $2.3 million has now been raised toward construction of the $3 million dollar facility in downtown Sarnia.
"Access Open Minds is something that we know will be a game changer for youth and young adults in our community and given that is a demographic that is reporting the most significant impact on their mental health and wellbeing, I think it really just speaks volumes to the importance of getting that facility up and running."
While funds for that facility will be directed toward the construction, it will be spent on supplies at the home and education opportunities for staff, patients and their families in the unit at the hospital.
"It's really important that it's not only about the operations and the capital infrastructure, but ensuring that our incredible front line workers are armed with the most relevant information and education to work with patients and clients that access care."
https://twitter.com/NOVAChemicals/status/1466093485451268098
NOVA also contributed $65,000 to the Inn of the Good Shepherd and $30,000 to the Women’s Interval Home this week.
Senior Vice President of HR and Communications Mona Jasinski said the donations were part of a $600,000 (USD) commitment in COVID-19 related support across NOVA's operational regions.
“Giving Tuesday is the perfect time for all of us to show our neighbours they will not be forgotten as the world recovers from this pandemic,” said Jasinski. “NOVA has a strong history of showing up for our communities when it’s needed most, and we are pleased to be in a position to provide needed support heading into what will still be a difficult holiday season for so many.”
