Coming Full Circle Program Launched In Haliburton County For Networking In Substance Abuse and Metal Health Challenges

Point in Time and the Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) have officially launched its Coming Full Circle Program in Haliburton County with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of CMHA HKPR.

Funded by Canada’s Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP), the program is a transformative two-year initiative designed to build a network of peer support workers who bring lived and living experience of substance use and mental health challenges according to a press release. These individuals are trained, mentored, and supported to contribute meaningfully to improvements in the health and social systems across Haliburton County.

The program is rooted in the belief that lived experience is a powerful asset. Peer support workers offer a unique and invaluable perspective, fostering trust, empathy, and connection in ways that traditional services often cannot.

“This program represents a different approach to care, one rooted in connection and lived experience.” said David Barkley, program supervisor. “Peer support means working with someone who truly understands the barriers and challenges because they’ve been through them too. That authenticity helps build trust and makes it easier to navigate the tough realities that can come with living in smaller, rural communities. People deserve support from a place where they feel welcomed, not judged.”

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CMHA HKPR Surpasses Goal, Raising Over $30,000 From Third Annual 'Change the Cycle' Fundraiser

The Canadian Mental Health Association, Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) crushed its $25,000 fundraising goal from its third annual ‘Change the Cycle’ event, raising $30,537.08 on Saturday at Nicholls Oval.

Ryan Waudby, Tom’s Heating & Cooling president (left) and Jack Veitch, CMHA HKPR manager of community engagement and education (right) after the former kickstarted the fundraiser with a $5,000 donation. CMHA HKPR's Change the Cycle raised over $25K for youth and family mental health supports. Photo courtesy of CMHA HKPR.

There were 86 riders who hit the Rotary Greenway Trail to support CMHA HKPR.

These funds will directly support Planet Youth through the Haliburton, Kawartha, Northumberland Peterborough (HKNP) Health Unit. It is an initiative dedicated to enhancing the mental wellness of youth and families in these areas.

“This is a huge win for youth and family mental health in our region, and it would not have been possible without you all. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible Agents of Change, Linda Kash and Michelle Mackey, for lending their voices and hearts to this cause. Your support means the world to us,” in a statement in a press release.

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Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign Raises Over $125,000 For Local Organizations

The Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign help make a lot of happy faces as they raised $125,022.48 for several local organizations, announced on Thursday.

Since the first-ever Smile Cookie campaign in 1996, the annual charitable campaign has raised a total of more than $151 million for charities and community groups. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

Nineteen participating locations throughout Peterborough, Bridgenorth, Lakefield, Curve Lake and Havelock contributed to the fundraiser. The beneficiary organizations were BGC Kawarthas Foundation, the Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) and Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC).

Of the funds raised, $62,511.24 will go towards FCCC ‘Building Abilities for Life’ Campaign with BGC Kawarthas and CMHA HKPR each receiving $31,255.62 to support their respective services.

“Our community truly came together to make this all possible. We are grateful to everyone who donated their time, helped spread the word, bought cookies and supported this initiative.” said Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “We are very appreciative of Tim’s and its staff who welcomed and assisted our Smile Cookie volunteers. The generosity of Tim Hortons and its ongoing support for many different organizations is amazing, and it was a pleasure to work alongside them as we all work to better health and wellness for youth in our communities.” 

“We appreciate the opportunity to work alongside Five Counties and BGC Kawarthas through the Smile Cookie Campaign,” said Ellen Watkins, CMHA HKPR CEO. “It was a delight to see our teams work together and to meet the community as we decorated cookies. Many thanks to the Tim Hortons staff who made us feel at home and part of the team.”

“On behalf of all the staff and volunteers from BGC Kawarthas, thank you to the hard-working staff and owners of the Tim Hortons,” said Amy Terrill, BGC Kawarthas executive director. “It was a distinct pleasure to be involved in the Smile Cookie campaign with our amazing partners at Five Counties Children’s Centre and CMHA HKPR. With the support of our community, many children and their families will benefit as a result.”

A record-breaking $22.6 million was raised through the sale of Smile Cookies this year, supporting over 600 charities and community groups across Canada and  the United States, according to Axel Schwan, Tim Hortons President.

“We’re so grateful for the outpouring of support for this year’s Smile Cookie campaign from Tims guests across Canada. Thanks to your incredible generosity we topped our previous Smile Cookie record,” he said.

The BGC Kawarthas Foundation raises funds to support the work of BGC Kawarthas, which provides essential programs and services for children and youth, including mental health and wellness programs, nutrition, after-school programs, summer camps, and leadership development activities.

CMHA HKPR provides mental health services and support to individuals in the community. Its programs promote mental wellness, offer crisis intervention, and provide counseling and therapy services.

Five Counties Children’s Centre has been dedicated to supporting children and youth with physical, developmental, and communication needs for 50 years. Last year, Five Counties provided treatment services for over 6,100 children and youth, of which 2,950 were from Peterborough and Peterborough County.

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CMHA HKPR Accepting Nominations For Community Mental Health Awards and Annual Tam Grant Bursary

The Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) is now accepting nominations for the Annual Community Mental Health Awards and Tam Grant Bursary, announced on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of CMHA HKPR.

According to CMHA HKPR, community members are encouraged to nominate someone who deserves recognition for their efforts in improving mental health in our community. This includes volunteers, community leaders, individuals with lived experience of mental illness, and their family members.

Applications for the annual Tam Grant Bursary are open for students entering post-secondary education with a diagnosed mental illness. The deadline for award and bursary submissions is June 23 at 4:30 p.m.

CMHA HKPR is calling for submissions for the following awards:

• The Achievement Through Adversity Award honours a client of CMHA HKPR services, or a survivor of mental illness, who has shown continued courage and tenacity in reaching their goals. In education, employment, volunteering, or through the tasks of daily living, this individual is a role model for others on the journey to a healthy life.

• The Maurice Lovnes Award is presented to an individual or individuals who have volunteered with CMHA HKPR, and who have exemplified the following traits during the year: Vision, Dedication, Caring, Support and Commitment.

• The Caregiver Champion Award honours a family member or caregiver who has shown continued support to a person living with mental health concerns.

• The Naresh James Award recognizes an individual who has championed critical issues, pioneered initiatives, and has achieved lasting impacts in support of those who live with mental health issues, as well as assisting their families and friends. This individual has demonstrated commitment to support individuals who live with mental health challenges through their leadership, advocacy, and perseverance.

• The Champion of Mental Health acknowledges individuals or organizations that have made outstanding contributions in the community by supporting mental health. These contributions should support Knowledge, Hope and Belonging: the three pillars that form the foundation of our organization to enable Mental Health for All.

• Tam Grant Bursary – Access to educational programs is one way for individuals living with schizophrenia or other serious and persistent mental illnesses to realize their own potential. The Tam Grant Memorial Bursary seeks to encourage and support these individuals as they pursue higher education.

Bursaries are awarded yearly at CMHA HKPR’s Annual Meeting for registration for the upcoming school year. The maximum amount awarded annually is $1,000.  Applicants must be Peterborough and County, Northumberland, Kawartha Lakes, or Haliburton residents.

Tam Grant Memorial Bursary applications and nomination forms can be found online.

All award nominations and bursary applications must be received by June 23 at 4:30 p.m. Successful nominees and applicants will be presented with their awards or bursaries at the CMHA HKPR Annual Meeting in September.

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CMHA HKPR Launches Third-Annual 'Change the Cycle' Fundraiser For Mental Health Initiatives

The Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) has launched the third-annual 'Change the Cycle' fundraising event at Nicholls Oval on June 21.

Ryan Waudby, Tom’s Heating & Cooling president (left) and Jack Veitch, CMHA HKPR manager of community engagement and education (right) after the former kickstarted the fundraiser with a $5,000 donation. CMHA HKPR's Change the Cycle raised over $25K for youth and family mental health supports. Photo courtesy of CMHA HKPR.

“Youth mental health is a critical area of focus, given the unique challenges and needs of this demographic,” said Jack Veitch, CMHA HKPR manager of community engagement and education. “We know the importance of providing accessible mental health care to young people, ensuring they can thrive. We are excited to announce this year’s proceeds will be going towards a new initiative called Planet Youth.”

To help kickstart the fundraiser, Tom’s Heating & Cooling donated $5,000.

Cyclists can register for a 4k, 12k or 26k ride along the Rotary Trail in Peterborough. They can register online as individuals or teams. Registration is $20 per person, and children 12 and under can register for free. Registration includes the ride, a t-shirt and a BBQ lunch.

To become an event sponsor or volunteer, email Veitch at jveitch@cmhahkpr.ca.

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Three Organizations Chosen For Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign

The cookie crumbles in a good way for three local organizations as they have been chosen to be the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign recipients in Peterborough and the surrounding areas.

Representatives from BGC Kawarthas, Canadian Mental Health Association HKPR, and Five Counties Children’s Centre join with owners of local Tim Hortons in Peterborough, Bridgenorth, Lakefield, Curve Lake and Havelock to mark the launch of the Smile Cookie campaign. Tim Hortons has been raising funds for local charities for over 25 years. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

The BGC Kawarthas Foundation, the Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) and Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) were the selected organizations for this year’s campaign.

It runs from April 28 to May 4 at 19 Tim Horton locations in Peterborough, Bridgenorth, Lakefield, Curve Lake and Havelock.

“We are very grateful to Tim Hortons locations in Peterborough and the surrounding area for selecting BGC Kawarthas Foundation, CMHA HKPR, and Five Counties to be the beneficiaries of the annual Smile Cookie Campaign,” said Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “Fundraising efforts like this will support all aspects of the health and wellness for children and youth in our communities.”

Proceeds are collected at 19 Tim Hortons locations in Peterborough and surrounding areas buy purchasing a Smile Cookie. Bulk orders are also available and can be ordered by completing a form and dropping it off at one of the locations.

“We’re looking forward to working with the local restaurant owners and engaging with local businesses and community members to create a fun, and successful Smile Cookie Campaign,” said Amy Terrill, BGC Kawarthas executive director. “As our organization continues to grow its services in the Peterborough area, this is an exciting way to work with our amazing partners at CMHA HKPR and Five Counties to share as many ‘smiles’ as possible.”

“Our team is thrilled to partner with Five Counties and BGC Kawarthas to support the Peterborough Smile Cookie campaign,” said Ellen Watkins, CMHA HKPR CEO. “This is a wonderful way to demonstrate the collaboration necessary to support children in families across the community.”

The BGC Kawarthas Foundation raises funds to support the work of BGC Kawarthas, which provides essential programs and services for children and youth, including mental health and wellness programs, nutrition, after-school programs, summer camps, and leadership development activities.

CMHA HKPR provides mental health services and support to individuals in the community. Its programs promote mental wellness, offer crisis intervention, and provide counselling and therapy services.

FCCC has been dedicated to supporting children and youth with physical, developmental, and communication needs for 50 years. Last year, Five Counties provided treatment services for over 2,950 children and youth in Peterborough and Peterborough County.

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CMHA Launches Mental Health Walk-in Clinics in Peterborough and Lindsay

The Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) has launched two Mental Health Walk-in Clinics in Peterborough and Lindsay as of Monday.

Jessica Swift, RPN (left) with the virtual care clinic at CMHA HKPR and Tracy Graham, Director of Programs and Services (right) photo courtesy of CMHA.

They are located at CMHA HKPR’s offices at 466 George St. N. in Peterborough and 33 Lindsay St. S. in Lindsay.

The clinics will run Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with no appointment necessary. The clinics are closed over lunch from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m.

The clinics are meant for individuals 16 and over who are not already connected with CMHA HKPR but are seeking mental health support and may not know how to get connected to care.

Depending on need, those visiting will see a mental health worker to be assessed and connect with CMHA HKPR services or another community service.

“This clinic is about creating a resource that allows people to have a real time connection with a mental health professional who can provide support and assist in helping people have information that is helpful to them as they access the mental health system” says Tracy Graham, Director of Programs and Services with CMHA HKPR.

The Mental Health Walk-in Clinics are a conversation and assessment tool to help individuals determine the best pathway to care for themselves in real time. The clinics are not for individuals in crisis or requiring acute care.

PRHC advises that anyone in crisis or experiencing emotional distress should contact the 9-8-8 National Suicide Crisis Line by calling or texting 9-8-8. Individuals seeking acute care should go to the Emergency Department at their local hospital.

The Mental Health Walk-in Clinics differ from Peterborough’s Talk Now Clinic. The Talk Now Clinic provides talk therapy support while the new clinics connect individuals to a broader network of mental health supports and pathways.

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Canadian Mental Health Association Offer Tips To Battle Mental Health Stigma On Bell Let's Talk Day

To mark the 15th annual Bell Let’s Talk Day, the Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) have joined the latter in providing tips to help beat the stigma of mental health.

Since its launch in 2010, Bell Let’s Talk has significantly advanced Canada’s mental health conversation. This initiative has reduced stigma, spurred open dialogue, and fostered positive changes in attitudes and behaviours surrounding mental health. File Photo.

 CMHA HKPR encourages the public to be part of the change and use this campaign as an opportunity to take action that is meaningful. 

How to Get Involved:

• Text the keyword “YOUTH” to 45678 to donate $5 to support youth mental health. Bell will match these donations up to $1 million.

These are the five ways to help fight the stigma surrounding mental illness:

1. Language matters – pay attention to the words you use.

2. Educate yourself – learn, know and talk more – understand the signs when someone needs help. Consider education offered through CMHA HKPR, including corporate and workplace mental health education as well as certificate training.

3. Be kind – small acts of kindness to someone struggling can help a lot.

4. Listen and ask – sometimes it is best to just listen.

5. Talk about it – start a dialogue, break the silence!

In October, Bell announced a $10 million contribution to mental health in 2025, increasing its total investment to $184 million since 2010.

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CMHA HKPR Seeking New Volunteer Member for Board of Directors

The Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) are accepting applications to our Board of Directors this November, announced on Monday.

File Photo.

CMHA is looking for the following from their candidates: 

• Commitment to the Mental Health of people in the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (HKPR) community

• The ability to commit to attending monthly board meetings (in-person/virtual) plus participating in committee work requiring additional regular meetings

• Brings diverse perspectives

• Clinical Settings

• Healthcare

• Accounting

• Information Technology

• Leadership

• Passionate community connector with fundraising experience

• Has experience with community-based mental health

• We strongly encourage applications representing minority and Indigenous backgrounds and from individuals with Lived Experience

Applications are found online.

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Peterborough Petes General Manager Wins Award

The Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) has awarded Petes GM and vice-president of Operations Mike Oke with the 2024 Naresh James Champion of Mental Health Award.

Photo supplied by peterborough petes

The annual award recognizes an individual who has championed, critical challenges, pioneered initiatives and achieved lasting impacts in support for those who live with mental health issues.

CMHA HKPR’s Jack Veitch nominated Oke for the award, citing his dedication to the work on the OHL’s Talk Today Program as well as his commitment to the mental health of his players and staff.

The award was presented at Wednesday's CMHA HKPR Annual General Meeting.

“Mike Oke transformed the Peterborough Petes' approach to mental health and wellness,” said Veitch. “In 2013, he and the Petes partnered with the CMHA to pilot the 'Talk Today' program, which became a national movement in Canadian junior hockey.”

“We piloted the Talk Today program in 2013 after the initiative was brought to us by Dave and Heather Pogue,” Oke added. “We were the first team to implement the program with our players and staff here in Peterborough, it then became mandatory in the entire CHL, growing to involve other junior hockey leagues in Canada.”

Oke noted they know of at least one situation where the work of the team’s support staff has had direct life saving impact in the community.

“These individuals work very closely with our players and staff daily to help eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health,” Oke said.

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