For the third consecutive year, the RBC Race for the Kids is supporting the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre’s (RVH) child and youth mental health program. This year, the event is evolving from a virtual race to a campaign focused on providing tangible benefits to young people receiving mental health care at RVH.
Instead of participating in a virtual race, community members are invited to contribute by purchasing gifts that directly aid young patients. These gifts, including personal care kits, art supplies, and games, are designed to support children in building coping skills, fostering resilience, and finding comfort during their treatment at RVH. Each gift plays a crucial role in their mental health journey, helping them develop relationships and easing their transition back home.
Pamela Ross, CEO of the RVH Foundation, expressed gratitude for RBC’s ongoing support. “We’re incredibly grateful to RBC for their continued commitment to the mental health of our youth,” Ross said. “This year’s campaign focuses on providing our child and youth mental health team with essential resources to deliver comprehensive and holistic care. Our young patients are more than their mental health challenges—they have passions, dreams, and interests. These gifts are vital in helping them heal, recover, and thrive.”
The need for robust mental health support is more critical than ever, as 75% of health center admissions for children aged 11 to 17 at RVH last year were related to mental health issues. Factors such as social media, academic pressures, and the ongoing effects of the pandemic have contributed to rising rates of anxiety, depression, and other conditions. As the only program of its kind in the region, RVH’s child and youth mental health program provides essential support for many families.
Since its inception in 2021, the RBC Race for the Kids has raised $421,000 to enhance mental health services for youth at RVH. This funding has facilitated improvements such as the establishment of a dedicated mental health assessment and treatment room in the emergency department. This year’s initiative aims to continue this legacy by ensuring that children and youth have access to the care, support, and resources necessary for their recovery and well-being.
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