The Hope Centre is breaking down barriers to mental health services, helping people through its Return2Hope counselling program. “For vulnerable individuals, especially those facing financial hardships, maintaining their mental health can be particularly challenging,” said chief executive officer Jon Braithwaite. “The street of financial instability can exacerbate those mental health issues, creating a vicious cycle that is hard to break without support.
” Wednesday, at Welland Public Library’s main branch, he and Catherine Kuckyt, Ontario Trillium Foundation grant review team Niagara chair, announced a $161,200 grant to help people in Welland access mental health services. “Low-income individuals often face significant careers to accessing mental health care, including cost, stigma or a lack of available resources. In fact, mental health challenges can perpetuate the cycle of poverty,” said Braithwaite.
He said being unable to access needed care affects a person’s ability to work and maintain stable housing. “Return2Hope breaks down these barriers by providing free, accessible mental health services. This ensures financial constraints do not prevent individuals from seeking the help they need.
” Braithwaite said OTF’s grant, under its resilient communities fund, will help increase the program’s capacity, and added partnering with the library allows for group sessions. Anthony Gatti, Return2Hope counselling program supervisor, said mental health programs.
