NLIS 3
September 15, 2004
(Health and Community Services)

 

Government support of community mental health initiative 
ensures quality services to children and families

Minister of Health and Community Services Elizabeth Marshall, along with Tom Marshall, Minister of Justice and Attorney General and MHA for the District of Humber East, are pleased to announce that government has provided a financial contribution of $48,000 to the Community Mental Health Initiative in support of community-based programming at Blomidon Place in Corner Brook. The contribution marks the third year of funding and is a collaborative effort of the departments of Health and Community Services, Justice, Education and Human Resources, Labour and Employment.

This contribution furthers government's commitment to mental health services and community-based programming. The provincial budget allocated an additional $1 million to mental health initiatives.

"This investment will help ensure that community supports are in place and the appropriate care is provided to persons suffering with mental illness," said Minister Elizabeth Marshall. "The work of Blomidon Place is important in assisting some of our most vulnerable members of society."

"I am pleased to partner with my colleagues and support the quality community-based mental health services offered at Blomidon Place which have had a positive impact on children, youth and families in Corner Brook and surrounding area," stated Minister Tom Marshall. "Blomidon Place has assisted in addressing mental health needs and fostering valuable mental health programming. The financial contribution will help support a coordinator to administer programs and services, liaise with community partners and community outreach."

The government support announced today will help the Blomidon Place family service center, which offers mental health services, family and youth counseling, court assessments and service coordination, to assist children and families in western Newfoundland.

"The Department of Education and the regional school district personnel have been strong supporters of the Blomidon Place model since it enhances our ability to work collaboratively in meeting the needs of children and youth," said Education Minister John Ottenheimer.

"The Department of Human Resources, Labour and Employment has long been a supporter of community-based programming," said Minister Joan Burke. "Organizations such as Blomidon Place offer both knowledge and insight at the community level to ensure effective and relevant services are available to those who need them. The contribution of such agencies is recognized across government."

The Community Mental Health Initiative is a community-based group established to address the mental health needs of people in western Newfoundland. Officially opened in September 1996, Blomidon Place focuses on prevention, assessment and treatment relating to mental health services for children, youth and families. Services are provided to individuals in Corner Brook, Bay of Islands and Pasadena areas.

Media contact:

Heather Donovan, Justice, (709) 729-6985
Carolyn Chaplin, Health and Community Services, (709) 729-1377

2004 09 15                       10:45 a.m.


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