Health and Community Services
March 11, 2015

Strengthening Mental Health Services for Youth

Paradise Youth Treatment Centre Receives Official Name

The new treatment centre for youth with complex mental health needs in Paradise has been officially named the Tuckamore Centre.

�The name Tuckamore Centre is a reflection of the youth who will receive care at this facility. Tuckamore trees are known for their resiliency. Despite the challenges they face through the elements, they flourish and grow. That is our hope for these young people. Our government is committed to advancing mental health services in our province for everyone who needs help and this facility is a vital tool in these efforts.�
- The Honourable Paul Davis, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador and MHA for Topsail

The facility provides specialized treatment for up to 12 youth between 12 and 18 years of age and represents a Provincial Government investment of approximately $12.5 million. A therapeutic home-like environment is provided, as well as a school area, a multipurpose room, a physical fitness area and dedicated space for family visiting overnight.

�Youth who are referred to the Tuckamore Centre may be dealing with a wide range of mental health issues and require a safe, structured environment to address individual needs. The name for the new centre reflects the resilience of the youth living there and their potential to flourish despite challenges. I thank everyone who took the time to suggest names for their engagement.�
- The Honourable Steve Kent, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Community Services

A consultative process was initiated by Eastern Health to determine the official name. In separate submissions, Pius Coombs and Marian Rose both suggested the Tuckamore Centre.

�In considering names for the Tuckamore Centre, it was important that it be just as creative, imaginative and inspiring as the young people who reside there, instilling hope among all who come through its doors. We look forward to continuing our work with these young people as they develop the tools needed to meet their goals and successfully transition home after treatment.�
- David Diamond, President and CEO, Eastern Health

The Provincial Government invests approximately $100 million annually for mental health and addictions programs and services delivered by the four regional health authorities.

To commemorate the naming of the youth treatment centre, one of its young residents prepared a piece of artwork depicting the centre�s namesake � the tuckamore tree. A picture of the artwork is attached to this release.

QUICK FACTS

  • The treatment centre for youth with complex mental health needs in Paradise has been officially named the Tuckamore Centre.
  • The facility represents an investment of approximately $12.5 million and provides specialized services for up to 12 youth at a time.
  • A consultative process was initiated by Eastern Health to determine the official name.
  • Tuckamore trees are known for flourishing despite harsh conditions along coastal areas of the province.
  • To commemorate the centre�s new name, one of its young residents prepared a piece of artwork depicting its namesake � the tuckamore tree. A picture is attached.

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Artwork created by one of the Tuckamore Centre�s young residents depicts the Centre�s namesake � the tuckamore tree � March, 2015.

Media contacts:

Heather MacLean
Director of Communications
Office of the Premier
709 729 3581
heathermaclean@gov.nl.ca
Donna Ivey
Special Assistant, Communications
Office of the Premier
709 729 3551
Donnaivey@gov.nl.ca
John Tompkins
Director of Communications
Department of Health and Community Services
709-729-1377, 728-7762
jtompkins@gov.nl.ca
Angela Greenslade
Media Relations Manager (Acting)
Eastern Health
709-777-1426
angela.greenslade@easternhealth.ca

2015 03 11                                                 3:45 p.m.