WELLINGTON COUNTY – The new Children and Youth Services building coming to Wellington County will have some financial aid in creating a cozy and welcoming environment.
“Local MPP Mike Schreiner met virtually with the team at the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Waterloo Wellington to hear more about the $145,000 Capital grant they received from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). ”
“The grant was used to provide furnishings and equipment for the new Children and Youth Services Building,” a media release from CHHA Waterloo Wellington states.
Some of the items that have been purchased as a result of the grant, include a portable stage, study pods, a pool table, and youth friendly furnishings to create an inviting space where youth feel comfortable hanging out, participating in recreational activities, and accessing community-based mental health services.
“The impact of this Ontario Trillium Foundation grant cannot be overstated,” said Helen Fishburn, CEO of CMHA Waterloo Wellington.
“The impact of prolonged isolation has left our children feeling lost, disconnected from their peer groups, with many turning to harmful ways to cope,” Fishburn stated.
“Our children and youth have been deprived of the social connections needed for their developmental progression. The Children and Youth Services Building and The Grove Youth Wellness Hub all under one roof will create the safety net our kids need to be resilient and build positive bright futures, and the furnishings provided by the OTF Capital grant has made this welcoming space come to life.”
A toy sanitizing machine has also been purchased to clean toys used in programs and services, ensuring the health and safety of children and families, and helping to instill confidence for families and caregivers in health and safety practices.
The new building, located in Guelph, is the result of a partnership with The Grove Youth Wellness Hubs to create a “one stop shop” making it easy and seamless for children, youth up to age 26 and their families to get what they need to reach their full potential.
